Citral is among the most frequently used lemon aroma industries in both the perfumery and food flavoring sectors. Its fresh citrus fragrance and numerous applications have made it a staple ingredient for fragrancers, flavorists, and formulators in the industrial sector.
In this blog, we will explore the citral structure, chemical properties, industrial applications, and why it continues to be a top choice for food-grade citral and fragrance production.
If you want to explore more Related to this, then it is the blog content: Complete Guide to Aroma Chemicals.
Citral is a naturally occurring aldehyde that can be present in oils from various citrus fruits, including lemon, lime, and orange. Their molecular formula is C10H16O. It is distinguished by its distinctive lemon scent, which makes it an essential ingredient in perfume production** as well as in food flavoring.
Geraniol (citral A) - strong lemon scent
The Neral (citral B) - somewhat sweeter, more delicate lemony smell
The flavorists as well as the chemists commonly use this term to describe"the citral structure that defines its olfactory qualities.
Citral's role is primarily in top notes, which gives the initial "freshness" impression of perfumes.
Sources: Trusted suppliers of citral guarantee the highest purity, safety handling, and compliance with regulations.
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|
Property |
Details |
|
Molecular Formula |
C₁₀H₁₆O |
|
Molar Mass |
152.24 g/mol |
|
Boiling Point |
228 °C |
|
Appearance |
Pale yellow liquid |
|
Solubility |
Soluble in ethanol, oils; insoluble in water |
|
Odor |
Strong lemon, citrusy |
Its aldehyde functional group contributes to reactivity in perfumes, allowing it to combine with other aroma molecules for balanced compositions.
The top note of the EDT and EDP. Also, perfumes as well as perfumes for the body
Utilized for the home-care scents to make detergents, air fresheners, candles, and candles
Blends aldehydes, penes, and essential oils for complex harmonies.
Lemon flavoring in drinks, candy, and baked items
Improves the fruity note in exotic flavor combos
works in synergy with sweet chemicals like Vanillin Isobutyrate
Aroma and I chemicals can be used in cosmetics (lotions as well as creams)
Intermediate in the synthesis vitamin A as a flavoring substance vitamin as well as additional flavor compounds
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Citral made from biotechnology derived from citrus peels utilizes many byproducts that are produced in the manufacturing of juices for citrus (e.g., citrus, orange, grapefruit, and lemon peels that comprise a majority of the weight of fruits).
The process of upcycling transforms agricultural waste into high-value food-grade citral. This reduces environmental burdens and pollution.
Green extraction methods :
Supercritical CO2: Solvent-free, low-energy, preserves purity.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents: Biodegradable, eco-friendly, and increases yields with no harmful chemical substances.
Circular Economy impact: It supports Zero-Waste targets, decreases dependence on petrochemicals, and encourages sustainable agriculture.
Eco-friendly solvents in citral blends: Replaces petroleum-based carriers with renewable alternatives.
Key solvent types:
Bio-based (from soy, corn, citrus terpenes): Drop-in compatible, biodegradable.
Water-based systems: Reduce VOC emissions, safer for consumer products.
Designer citrus fragrances for premium consumers: Leverages high-purity, natural-origin citral for authentic, vibrant lemon notes.
Clean-label luxury: Appeals to eco-conscious buyers seeking transparency, sustainability, and sophistication.
Signature profiles: Used in artisanal and high-end lines (e.g., unisex colognes, layered citrus eaux de parfum) for bright, long-lasting top notes with depth.
Flavors & Beverages: Core lemon note in sodas, candies, teas, and functional drinks.
Home-care: Fresh scent in detergents, surface cleaners, and air fresheners.
Cosmeceuticals: Incorporated in skincare (e.g., vitamin C serums, exfoliants) for aroma and mild antimicrobial benefits.
Versatility: Stable across pH, heat, and formulations—ideal for broad industrial use.
Citral is a citrus aroma chemical with in the family of aldehydes, which is used in food and perfumes.
Mostly as a top note, mixed with other aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes for bright, fresh notes.
Yes, food-grade citral is accepted for drinks, candies, as well as bakery and dairy applications.
Citral provides pure lemon smell, and the limonene blends orange and citrus notes, and is not as sharp.
Knowing how the structure of the a-b-unsaturated aldehyde can be essential for stability, mixing, as well as reactivity in fragrances and flavorings.