Gamma-undecalactone, a compound commonly found in peach, apricot, and other fruits, plays a significant role in everyday life due to its aroma and flavor-enhancing properties. This compound is heavily utilized in the food and beverage industry to impart a sweet, fruity, and creamy note to various products ranging from baked goods to alcoholic beverages. Additionally, gamma-undecalactone is also used in the production of perfumes and cosmetics, further enhancing its relevance in daily life. Its aromatic profile contributes to the overall sensory experience of numerous consumer products, making it a crucial ingredient in various aspects of everyday life.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Gamma-undecalactone, a chemical compound commonly found in peach, apricot, and other fruits, has several commercial and industrial applications. It is widely used in the fragrance industry as a flavoring agent in food and beverages, especially in peach, apricot, and coconut-flavored products. Additionally, this compound is a key ingredient in cosmetics and perfumes due to its sweet, fruity aroma.
In the pharmaceutical industry, Gamma-undecalactone is utilized in drug and medication applications. It is known for its antimicrobial properties and is often incorporated into topical ointments and creams to treat skin infections. Additionally, research suggests that this compound may have potential anti-inflammatory effects, making it a promising candidate for the development of new drugs targeting inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Overall, Gamma-undecalactone plays a crucial role in various commercial and industrial sectors, from flavoring agents in food and beverages to fragrance ingredients in cosmetics and perfumes. Its diverse applications in the pharmaceutical industry also highlight its potential for therapeutic use in treating skin infections and inflammatory conditions.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Gamma-undecalactone is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, peach-like odor. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent in food and perfumes due to its pleasant aroma.
The molar mass of Gamma-undecalactone is approximately 194.25 g/mol, with a density of about 0.982 g/cm3. Comparatively, this places it in the range of other food items such as sugars and alcohols in terms of molar mass and density.
Gamma-undecalactone has a melting point of around -25°C and a boiling point of approximately 253°C. These properties are higher than those of many common food items like fats and oils, indicating a relatively higher level of stability under heat.
In terms of solubility, Gamma-undecalactone is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. It has a low viscosity, making it easy to mix with other liquids. This contrasts with many common food items that are more soluble in water and may have higher viscosity levels.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Gamma-undecalactone is a lactone compound commonly used in the food and fragrance industries for its peachy aroma. It is primarily produced through chemical synthesis, involving the reaction of hydroxyl decanoic acid with hydrogen chloride to form the lactone ring.
In order to procure Gamma-undecalactone, one must typically contact a chemical supplier who specializes in flavor and fragrance ingredients. It can be purchased in liquid form and is usually transported in sealed containers to prevent evaporation or degradation during transit. Proper handling and storage are necessary to maintain the quality and shelf life of the compound.
Once procured, Gamma-undecalactone can be utilized in various applications such as flavoring agents in food products, fragrances, or even as a chemical intermediate in the production of other compounds. It is important to follow safety guidelines and regulations when working with this compound due to its potential hazards and sensitivities. Proper labeling and documentation should accompany the transport and use of Gamma-undecalactone to ensure compliance with industry standards.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Gamma-undecalactone should include proper handling, storage, and disposal methods. This compound should be kept in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. Personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn when handling Gamma-undecalactone to prevent skin contact and inhalation of vapors. In case of accidental exposure, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Hazard statements for Gamma-undecalactone include “Causes skin irritation” and “May cause an allergic skin reaction.” These statements indicate that contact with the compound may lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. It is important to take precautions to minimize skin contact with Gamma-undecalactone and seek medical attention if any adverse reactions occur.
Precautionary statements for Gamma-undecalactone include “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection” and “IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water.” These statements emphasize the importance of using personal protective equipment when handling the compound and the need to promptly wash the skin with soap and water in case of contact. Additionally, precautionary measures may include avoiding inhaling vapors and carefully following storage and disposal guidelines to prevent environmental contamination.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for Gamma-undecalactone could involve exploring its potential as a flavoring agent in the food industry. Studies could investigate its impact on taste perception and consumer preferences in various food products.
Additionally, research could focus on the synthesis and production of Gamma-undecalactone to optimize its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This could involve exploring alternative sources of the compound and developing novel methods for its extraction and purification.
Furthermore, investigating the potential biological activities of Gamma-undecalactone could be an interesting research direction. Studies could explore its antimicrobial, antioxidant, or anti-inflammatory properties, providing insights into its possible applications in pharmaceuticals or cosmetics.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Gamma-undecalactone is Gamma-dodecalactone, which is a lactone with a similar molecular structure to Gamma-undecalactone. Gamma-dodecalactone has a twelve-carbon chain length and a lactone ring structure, similar to the ten-carbon chain and lactone ring structure of Gamma-undecalactone. This compound is commonly used in the food and fragrance industries for its sweet, creamy, and fruity aroma.
Another comparable compound is Gamma-decalactone, which is a lactone with a ten-carbon chain length similar to that of Gamma-undecalactone. Gamma-decalactone is known for its peach-like aroma and is commonly used in the food and beverage industry for adding fruity notes to products. This compound has a similar molecular structure to Gamma-undecalactone, making it a suitable alternative in various applications.
One more related compound is Gamma-octalactone, which is a lactone with an eight-carbon chain length. Although Gamma-octalactone has a shorter carbon chain than Gamma-undecalactone, it shares a lactone ring structure and similar fruity aroma characteristics. This compound is often used in the food and fragrance industries to impart coconut and peach-like notes to products.
