6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · intermediate in chemical synthesis
Valeraldehyde
Also known as: pentanal, valeraldehyde, valeric aldehyde
Molecular Formula
C5H10O
Molecular Weight
86.13 g/mol
Category
aldehyde
Bottom Line: Valeraldehyde is generally considered safe in low concentrations, though some individuals may experience irritation when used in cosmetics.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations in cosmetics
- properly diluted in food applications
- not used in products for sensitive skin
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have a history of skin sensitivities
- using in household products near children
- consuming large amounts in food products
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to aldehydes
- using on broken or irritated skin
- consuming if pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C5H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 86.13 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -133.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 217.0°C |
| Solubility | Slight |
| Density | 0.8095 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 1.1 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, skin creams, hair products. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, food preservatives. Generally safe in food at regulated levels.
Pharmaceutical
Active pharmaceutical ingredients. Use under strict regulatory guidelines.
Household
Cleaning agents, air fresheners. Ensure proper ventilation when using products.
Supplement
Dietary supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Valeraldehyde is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of valeraldehyde may lead to gastrointestinal irritation and should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of valeraldehyde vapors can cause respiratory irritation, especially in high concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and potential damage; avoid exposure.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to irritants and potential adverse effects.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy; use with caution.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated with minimal risk.
- sensitive_skin — Moderate risk; patch testing recommended.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically tolerate valeraldehyde well, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on the effects of valeraldehyde during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to valeraldehyde exposure, leading to higher risk of irritation. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on transfer through breast milk; use cautiously. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation from valeraldehyde. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Valeraldehyde has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity in regulated uses.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Draize test | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Valeraldehyde has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity in regulated uses.
- Generally recognized as safe in low concentrations.
- May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory assessments support its use in food and cosmetics.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Valeraldehyde
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Valeraldehyde is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Valeraldehyde
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Valeraldehyde is safe for use as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Regulatory Status of Valeraldehyde
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Valeraldehyde is permitted for use in food and cosmetics under specific guidelines.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Valeraldehyde is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Use in food and cosmetics under specific guidelines.
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Allowed in food flavoring and cosmetics.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Regulated under UK food and cosmetic laws.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Valeraldehyde is generally safe in low concentrations, but may irritate sensitive skin.
Yes, but ensure it is within regulated limits to avoid potential health risks.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T08:25:49.116623Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.