FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3-Ethyl Pyridine (CAS: 536-78-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 3-Ethyl pyridine
- IUPAC Name: 3-Ethylpyridine
- CAS Number: 536-78-7
- FEMA Number: Data not found
- Other Identifiers: FL number not found; CoE number not found; IFRA reference not found
- Molecular Formula: C7H9N
- Molecular Weight: 107.15 g/mol
- Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 3-Ethyl pyridine is a pyridine derivative with an ethyl group at the third position. The presence of the pyridine ring contributes to its characteristic odor, which is often described as pungent and unpleasant, similar to other pyridine compounds.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
- Odor and Flavor Descriptors: 3-Ethyl pyridine is known for its strong, pungent odor, often described as fishy or reminiscent of pyridine. It is not typically used for its flavor properties due to its intense and unpleasant aroma.
- Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature.
- Typical Sensory Role: Due to its strong odor, 3-ethyl pyridine is generally not used as a primary flavor or fragrance component but may be used in trace amounts to add complexity or realism to certain formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
- Known Natural Sources: 3-Ethyl pyridine is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for industrial use.
- Formation Pathways: It can be produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the alkylation of pyridine.
- Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its synthetic origin and lack of natural occurrence, 3-ethyl pyridine does not qualify for natural flavor or fragrance designations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
- Flavor Categories and Applications: 3-Ethyl pyridine is not typically used in flavor applications due to its strong and unpleasant odor.
- Functional Role in Flavor Systems: When used, it is primarily for its ability to impart a trace note that can enhance the authenticity of certain savory profiles.
- Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels are not available; however, if used, it would be in very low ppm ranges due to its potency.
- Stability Considerations: It is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
- Fragrance Families and Product Types: Rarely used in mainstream fragrance products due to its strong odor.
- Functional Role: May be used in trace amounts for its ability to add depth or realism to certain fragrance compositions.
- Typical Concentration Ranges: Not clearly documented; likely used in very low concentrations.
- Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: High volatility; typically contributes to the top notes if used.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not listed as GRAS for flavor use.
- European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not specifically listed.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific listing.
- Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Data not found; typically follows international standards.
- Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Data not found; generally aligns with international norms.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Not typically used in food products; therefore, oral exposure is minimal.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on dermal exposure; potential for irritation due to its chemical nature.
- Inhalation Exposure: High volatility may pose inhalation risks; appropriate ventilation is recommended in industrial settings.
- Risk Profiles: Generally considered more of a concern in fragrance applications due to potential inhalation exposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
- Why This Material is Valuable: Primarily used for its ability to impart a unique trace note in complex formulations.
- Typical Synergies: Can be used with other pyridine derivatives to enhance savory or umami profiles.
- Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering and unpleasant odor.
- Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-used: Often under-used due to its strong odor; careful balancing is required.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
- Well-Established Data: Basic chemical properties and sensory characteristics are well-documented.
- Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use in trace amounts for specific flavor or fragrance effects.
- Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Limited regulatory data and specific use cases in flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents
QA Check
- All required sections 1–9 are present
- “Citation hooks:” line is present under each section
- Flavor section includes ppm ranges
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- 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 2026-04-20 13:12:01 GMT (p2)
