FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Acetate (CAS: 141-78-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl Acetate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl Ethanoate
• CAS Number: 141-78-6
• FEMA Number: 2414
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
• Molecular Formula: C4H8O2
• Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol

Ethyl acetate is an ester formed from ethanol and acetic acid. It is characterized by its functional groups, which include an ester linkage that contributes to its sweet, fruity odor. This structural feature is crucial for its role in both flavor and fragrance applications, where it is valued for its volatility and pleasant aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl acetate is known for its sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of pear drops and overripe fruit. It is often described as having a medium intensity with good diffusion properties. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a bright, fruity top note that enhances the overall sensory profile of a product. The odor threshold of ethyl acetate is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, such as apples, grapes, and bananas, and is also found in wines and spirits as a result of fermentation processes. It can be formed through the esterification of ethanol and acetic acid, a reaction that can occur naturally in fruit ripening and fermentation. Its presence in natural products allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, banana, and pineapple. It acts as a top note enhancer, providing brightness and lift to the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. It is generally stable under typical food processing conditions but can hydrolyze under extreme pH or heat.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, ethyl acetate is utilized across various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand. It serves as a volatile top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its high volatility makes it an effective carrier solvent, enhancing the diffusion of other fragrance components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

Ethyl acetate is approved for use as a flavoring agent under FEMA GRAS status. It is also permitted in fragrances without specific restrictions.

European Union

Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 09.037, ethyl acetate is approved for use in both flavors and fragrances.

United Kingdom

Post-Brexit, the UK aligns with EU regulations, maintaining similar approvals for ethyl acetate.

Asia

In Japan and China, ethyl acetate is approved for use in food and fragrances, subject to local regulations.

Latin America

Countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR recognize ethyl acetate as a safe additive in flavors and fragrances, following international guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Ethyl acetate has a high margin of safety when used as a flavoring agent, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by JECFA. It is rapidly metabolized and excreted, minimizing systemic exposure.

Dermal Exposure

In fragrance applications, ethyl acetate is considered non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use levels. IFRA standards do not impose specific restrictions on its use.

Inhalation Exposure

Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is possible, particularly in occupational settings. However, its low toxicity profile and rapid clearance reduce potential risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl acetate is valued for its ability to enhance the brightness and appeal of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity notes, providing a cohesive and appealing sensory experience. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility, which can lead to rapid evaporation if not properly managed. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its impact can be overshadowed by heavier components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels, though some variability exists in regional regulatory interpretations. No significant data gaps are identified, ensuring high confidence in its safety and efficacy.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• [x] All required sections 1-9 are present
• [x] "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• [x] Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• [x] Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• [x] Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• [x] If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-01-20 08:11:45 GMT (p2)