6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
Flavoring Agent · Fragrance · Solvent · Intermediate
Trans-2-Hexenal
Also known as: 2-Hexenal, Hex-2-enal, Trans-2-hexenal
Molecular Formula
C6H10O
Molecular Weight
98.14 g/mol
Category
Flavoring Agent
Bottom Line: Trans-2-Hexenal is generally considered safe for use in food and cosmetics, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
- not combined with known allergens
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you have a history of allergies
- you are using other fragrance products
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to similar compounds
- you have respiratory issues
- you are using on children without testing
- you experience irritation upon use
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C6H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 98.14 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 47.0°C |
| Solubility | Soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 1.5 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetics, but patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages, snacks. Used as a flavoring agent; safe in regulated amounts.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, oral solutions. Use in pharmaceuticals is regulated; consult a professional.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Consult a healthcare provider before use in supplements.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Trans-2-Hexenal is generally well tolerated on skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Ingestion of Trans-2-Hexenal may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but high concentrations may cause irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with Trans-2-Hexenal may cause irritation and discomfort.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children may be more susceptible to irritation and adverse effects.
- sensitive_skin — Individuals with sensitive skin may react adversely.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated by healthy adults.
- breastfeeding — Typically considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally healthy adults can tolerate Trans-2-Hexenal without significant issues. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Limited data; generally considered safe but caution is advised. |
| elderly | Low to Moderate | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Trans-2-Hexenal has been evaluated for safety in food and cosmetic applications, showing low toxicity.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
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
Trans-2-Hexenal has been evaluated for safety in food and cosmetic applications, showing low toxicity.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
- Potential irritant for sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Trans-2-Hexenal
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Trans-2-Hexenal
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food flavoring.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted as a flavoring agent in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Trans-2-Hexenal is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes, but individuals with sensitive skin should patch test before use.
Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions; caution is advised.
It is permitted in the US, EU, UK, and Canada for use in food and cosmetics.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T08:07:12.091324Z | — | 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.