# Gamma-octadecalactone

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 502-26-1
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Gamma-octadecalactone (CAS 502-26-1) is a synthetic flavoring compound that belongs to the lactone chemical family. It is used in the food industry to impart creamy, buttery, and coconut-like flavor notes to various food products.

## 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-octadecalactone?

Gamma-octadecalactone is a synthetic organic compound classified as a lactone, a type of cyclic ester derived from fatty acids. Its chemical structure consists of an 18-carbon chain with a lactone ring, which contributes to its characteristic sensory properties. This compound is produced through chemical synthesis rather than extracted from natural sources, though similar compounds occur naturally in small quantities in various foods.

The compound is recognized primarily for its ability to provide creamy, buttery, and coconut-like flavor characteristics in food applications. Its molecular weight and chemical stability make it suitable for use in processed food products where consistent flavor delivery is desired.

## Common Uses

Gamma-octadecalactone is utilized as a flavoring agent or adjuvant in the food industry. Its primary applications include:

- Dairy products (ice cream, yogurt, cream cheese)
- Baked goods and pastry fillings
- Confectionery items
- Beverages
- Processed food products requiring cream or butter flavoring notes

The compound is typically used in very small quantities, measured in parts per million (ppm), as is standard with synthetic flavor compounds. Its use allows manufacturers to achieve consistent flavor profiles across product batches without relying on natural flavor extracts, which can vary in composition.

## Safety Assessment

Gamma-octadecalactone currently has no FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, indicating it has not undergone formal GRAS determination through the FDA's established review process. However, this designation does not imply the substance is unsafe; rather, it indicates that the compound has not been formally petitioned for or received explicit GRAS affirmation through FDA channels.

As of current records, there are zero adverse events reported to the FDA associated with gamma-octadecalactone consumption, and no recalls have been issued involving this additive. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests it has been used without documented harm in food applications.

The compound's safety profile appears consistent with other synthetic lactone flavor compounds used in food manufacturing. The lack of reported adverse events combined with decades of use in food products suggests acceptable safety margins at typical use levels. However, comprehensive toxicological studies specific to this compound may be limited in the public domain.

## Regulatory Status

Gamma-octadecalactone is not explicitly banned in any major food-producing jurisdiction. In the United States, while it lacks GRAS status, it may be used in foods under the FDA's regulations for food additives and flavor compounds, subject to compliance with quantity restrictions and intended use parameters.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated similar lactone compounds, many of which are permitted in food applications under EU Regulation EC No. 1334/2008 on flavorings. The regulatory landscape for gamma-octadecalactone varies by country, and manufacturers must verify compliance with local food additive regulations in their target markets.

## Key Studies

Published scientific literature specifically examining gamma-octadecalactone remains limited in the public domain. Most safety assessments for synthetic lactone flavor compounds rely on structural similarity to other approved compounds, general toxicology principles, and the empirical safety record of the compound in food use.

The compound has been used in commercial food applications for several decades without documented safety concerns. Industry data on flavor compounds with similar chemical structures suggest that lactone-based flavorings are metabolized efficiently by the body and do not accumulate in tissues.

Further research and formal toxicological assessment could provide additional confidence in its safety profile, particularly regarding long-term exposure at various dietary levels. Any manufacturer considering use should review current regulatory requirements in their jurisdiction and conduct appropriate safety documentation.

## 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-octadecalactone — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/gamma-octadecalactone. Accessed 2026-05-19.