# Gamma-methyldecalactone

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/gamma-methyldecalactone.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 7011-83-8
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Gamma-methyldecalactone (CAS 7011-83-8) is a synthetic flavoring compound used to impart fruity, creamy, and coconut-like notes in food and beverage products. It functions as a flavoring agent to enhance taste profiles in various processed foods.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Gamma-methyldecalactone?

Gamma-methyldecalactone is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the lactone family of flavor molecules. Lactones are cyclic esters naturally found in fruits, dairy products, and other foods, contributing to their characteristic aromas and tastes. This specific compound (CAS Number 7011-83-8) is manufactured synthetically for use as a food flavoring agent. Its chemical structure gives it a distinctive fruity, creamy, and subtly coconut-like flavor profile that makes it valuable in the food industry.

## Common Uses

Gamma-methyldecalactone is primarily used in the flavoring industry to enhance commercial food and beverage products. Common applications include:

- Dairy products (yogurts, flavored milks, ice cream)
- Confectionery and candy
- Baked goods and pastries
- Beverages (fruit juices, flavored waters)
- Desserts and puddings
- Savory processed foods requiring fruity or creamy flavor notes

The compound is used in very small concentrations—typically measured in parts per million—to achieve desired flavor profiles without overwhelming other taste components.

## Safety Assessment

Gamma-methyldecalactone has not been formally evaluated and approved by the FDA as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance, meaning it has not undergone the agency's official GRAS determination process. However, this designation does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it indicates the absence of a formal FDA GRAS petition or determination.

According to FDA records, there have been no reported adverse events associated with gamma-methyldecalactone, and no product recalls have been issued due to this ingredient. The lack of adverse event reports suggests no significant safety concerns have emerged from its use in food products.

As a member of the lactone family, gamma-methyldecalactone shares chemical similarities with naturally occurring flavor compounds found in fruits and other foods. The flavor industry has extensive experience with lactone-based flavorings, many of which have established safety histories.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, while gamma-methyldecalactone lacks FDA GRAS status, it may still be used as a food additive under the FDA's framework for indirect food additives or as a component of approved flavor formulations. Manufacturers using this ingredient should ensure compliance with applicable FDA regulations and may be required to provide safety documentation to support its use.

The European Union's food safety regulations and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) may have different approval statuses for this compound. Companies operating in multiple jurisdictions should verify local regulatory requirements.

The absence of a formal GRAS determination should not be interpreted as evidence of harm or unsuitability for food use. Rather, it reflects that no formal petition has been submitted to the FDA or that such a petition has not been completed.

## Key Studies

Limited published scientific literature specifically addresses gamma-methyldecalactone safety. Most safety information derives from:

1. General lactone compound research, which demonstrates the chemical family's acceptable safety profile in food applications
2. Flavor industry databases and toxicological summaries
3. Absence of adverse event reports in regulatory databases
4. Chemical structure analysis and comparison to related approved flavoring compounds

The compound's sensory properties and food applications have been documented in flavor chemistry literature, establishing its technical utility in food manufacturing. Any manufacturer considering use of this ingredient should consult current toxicological data, safety databases maintained by flavor industry organizations, and regulatory guidance for their specific market.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Gamma-methyldecalactone — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/gamma-methyldecalactone. Accessed 2026-05-19.