5(6)-Decenoic Acid (Milk Lactone) CAS 72881-27-7 FEMA 3742

5(6)-Decenoic Acid, commonly known in the flavor industry as Milk Lactone, is a premium unsaturated fatty acid renowned for delivering an authentic and rich dairy profile. With the chemical formula C₁₀H₁₈O₂ and a molecular weight of 170.25, this ingredient is a staple for flavorists seeking to recreate the creamy, full-fat notes of fresh milk, butter, and cream in a variety of food systems.

This product is officially listed under CAS Number 72881-27-7 and FEMA Number 3742, ensuring compliance with international flavor ingredient standards. It is also cataloged under GB2760 Code S1302, confirming its approval for use within the Chinese food additive regulatory framework. The material strictly adheres to high-quality benchmarks, complying with GB29938-2020 (General Standard for Flavoring Agents) and QB/T4236-2011, which specifies the technical requirements for milk lactone used in the food industry.

The physical and chemical properties of this specific grade are carefully controlled to ensure consistency and performance. It typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid, characterized by an intensely rich, milky odor that is clean and devoid of off-notes. The product specifications include a relative density (25°C/25°C) ranging from 0.916 to 0.945 and a refractive index (20°C) between 1.447 and 1.460. These parameters guarantee the stability and solubility required for precise formulation in both oil-based and emulsion systems.

In terms of compositional purity, this product offers a dual-specification quality standard. The content of 5- and 6-Decenoic acid isomers (cis and trans) is guaranteed to be ≥ 98.0% when combined with γ-Decalactone and δ-Decalactone, ensuring a well-rounded and complex dairy profile. The core content of the decenoic acid isomers alone is maintained at ≥ 88.0%, providing the essential character-defining fatty note that distinguishes fresh milk from artificial-tasting alternatives.

Milk Lactone (FEMA 3742) is particularly valued for its ability to deliver a natural, "farm-fresh" creaminess that is often difficult to achieve using only simple lactones or vanillin. Unlike saturated fatty acids which can produce waxy or soapy off-notes, 5(6)-Decenoic Acid provides a smooth, milky mouthfeel and authentic flavor lift. It is highly recommended for use in a wide array of applications, including but not limited to: dairy products (milk, cream, yogurt), baked goods, confectionery, ice cream, margarine, and sweetened beverages.

For optimal performance, the recommended usage level is 2 to 10 μg/g (ppm) , allowing formulators to achieve a subtle enhancement at lower doses or a pronounced creamy backbone at higher concentrations. This versatility makes 5(6)-Decenoic Acid an indispensable tool for creating premium dairy flavors that meet consumer expectations for authenticity and taste.