What is N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide?
N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide (CAS Number: 608514-56-3) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the amide class of flavoring agents. Its chemical structure consists of a nine-carbon chain with specific double bond configurations (trans at position 2 and cis at position 6) bonded to an ethyl-substituted amide group. This particular molecular arrangement contributes to its sensory properties as a flavoring substance.
As a synthetic flavoring compound, it is designed to provide or enhance specific flavor and aroma profiles in food and beverage applications. The compound's chemical stability and flavor characteristics make it suitable for use in various food formulations where specific taste notes are desired.
Common Uses
N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide is utilized in the food industry as a flavoring agent or flavor adjuvant. While specific commercial products containing this ingredient are limited, it is typically incorporated into food formulations at very low concentrations to achieve desired sensory outcomes. Its application would generally be limited to processed foods, beverages, or flavoring preparations where regulatory approval for use exists in specific jurisdictions.
The compound's specific chemical structure suggests it may be used to impart particular flavor characteristics, though detailed information about its specific flavor profile or primary food applications is not extensively documented in public databases.
Safety Assessment
Based on available FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported for N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide, and the compound has not been subject to any FDA recalls. This absence of reported safety issues suggests that where this compound is used, it has not generated consumer safety concerns significant enough to warrant formal reporting.
It is important to note that the lack of reported adverse events does not necessarily indicate comprehensive safety testing, but rather reflects the absence of documented safety problems in the FDA's adverse event reporting system. The compound's limited commercial use may also contribute to the minimal data in safety databases.
As with all synthetic flavoring agents, consumption occurs in very small quantities, which typically limits exposure risk. The safety profile of flavoring compounds is generally considered acceptable when used in accordance with established limitations and regulatory approvals.
Regulatory Status
N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide is not currently listed as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA. This classification means the compound has not undergone the GRAS determination process or has not met the criteria for GRAS status. However, GRAS status is not a requirement for all food additives; compounds may be permitted for use under specific regulations, pre-1958 provisions, or through individual food additive petitions.
The regulatory status of this compound may vary internationally. In the European Union, synthetic flavoring substances are subject to evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and must be listed in the Register of Flavoring Substances to be legally used in foods. Manufacturers seeking to use this compound in different jurisdictions must comply with local regulatory requirements.
Use of this additive would typically require specific regulatory authorization in each country or region where it is marketed in food products.
Key Studies
Publicly available peer-reviewed research specifically addressing N-ethyl Trans-2-cis-6-nonadienamide appears limited. Most information regarding synthetic flavoring compounds comes from toxicological assessments conducted during regulatory approval processes, which may not be published in open-access scientific literature.
For synthetic flavoring agents generally, safety assessments typically evaluate acute and subchronic toxicity, potential genotoxicity, and allergenicity. The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) also maintains an Expert Panel that evaluates flavoring substance safety.
Manufacturers using this compound would be expected to maintain safety documentation and toxicological data supporting its use in food applications, though such data may be proprietary and not publicly available. Regulatory agencies review such data as part of approval or notification processes.