What is (E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-ol Acetate?
(E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-ol acetate, identified by CAS number 68555-65-7, is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of acetate esters. This flavoring ingredient is characterized by its nine-carbon backbone with two double bonds in different geometric configurations (one in E-configuration and one in Z-configuration), combined with an acetate functional group. The compound is used exclusively for its aromatic properties in food manufacturing rather than for nutritional or preservative purposes.
Common Uses
This flavoring agent is employed in the food and beverage industry to enhance or create fruity, green, and slightly floral flavor profiles. It is typically used in small concentrations in products such as flavored beverages, desserts, confectionery, baked goods, and other processed foods where fruity or fresh notes are desired. The compound's specific aroma characteristics make it valuable for formulators seeking to achieve particular sensory outcomes without using natural fruit extracts or other flavor sources.
Safety Assessment
The FDA has received zero adverse event reports associated with (E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-ol acetate and has recorded no product recalls linked to this ingredient. While this additive has not been granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status by the FDA, the absence of adverse events and recalls suggests no documented safety incidents in commercial use. The compound's synthetic nature means it undergoes standard toxicological evaluation before market authorization in regulated jurisdictions.
Like many synthetic flavoring compounds, the safety profile is typically established through acute and subchronic toxicity studies conducted on laboratory animals. These studies assess parameters such as oral toxicity, dermal irritation, and potential systemic effects. The molecular structure of acetate esters is generally considered low-hazard from a toxicological perspective, as acetates are naturally occurring metabolites produced during normal cellular respiration.
Regulatory Status
(E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-ol acetate does not hold FDA GRAS status, which means it operates under FDA regulations for food additives but does not benefit from the streamlined approval pathway that GRAS compounds enjoy. However, its use is permitted in certain regulated food categories where synthetic flavoring agents are allowed. The compound may be used in cosmetics and personal care products in some jurisdictions as well, depending on local regulations.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established acceptable daily intake (ADI) values and use levels for structurally similar flavoring compounds in the acetate ester family. Manufacturers using this ingredient must comply with maximum residue limits and labeling requirements established in their respective markets. In the European Union, this additive may be listed under flavoring regulations, subject to compliance with Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
Key Studies
Toxicological data for (E,Z)-2,6-nonadien-1-ol acetate and structurally related acetate esters have been evaluated by the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) and other regulatory bodies. Studies on similar nine-carbon acetate flavoring compounds indicate low systemic toxicity and minimal bioaccumulation potential. The compound is expected to be metabolized rapidly through ester hydrolysis and standard acetyl-CoA pathways.
The zero adverse event reports and absence of recalls over its period of commercial use suggest that any risks associated with this ingredient, if they exist, occur at exposure levels far below those typically encountered in food. Continued monitoring through FDA's adverse event reporting system ensures that any emerging safety signals would be detected and investigated promptly.