FlavScents AInsights Entry for Dipropyl Tetrasulfide (CAS: 52687-98-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Dipropyl tetrasulfide
• IUPAC Name: 1,1,3,3-Tetrathiapentane
• CAS Number: 52687-98-6
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C6H14S4
• Molecular Weight: 214.4 g/mol

Dipropyl tetrasulfide is a sulfur-containing compound characterized by its tetrasulfide linkage. The presence of multiple sulfur atoms contributes to its potent odor profile, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications. The compound's structure is crucial for its sensory attributes, often imparting a strong, garlic-like aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dipropyl tetrasulfide is known for its intense, garlic-like odor, which can be described as pungent and sulfurous. This compound is often used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a characteristic sharpness and depth. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective in small concentrations. Its sensory role is typically as a modifier or enhancer, adding complexity to savory profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dipropyl tetrasulfide is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through the thermal degradation of allium species, such as garlic and onions. This compound is often associated with the Maillard reaction and other thermal processes that occur during cooking, contributing to the characteristic aroma of cooked garlic. Its presence in natural products can support a "natural flavor" designation when derived from appropriate sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Dipropyl tetrasulfide is primarily used in savory flavor applications, including meat, garlic, and onion flavors. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, providing authenticity and depth. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor profile. The compound is relatively stable under heat but may oxidize over time, affecting its sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, dipropyl tetrasulfide is used sparingly due to its potent odor. It is typically found in trace amounts within fragrance families that require a sulfurous note, such as certain fougères and chypres. Its role is often as a trace realism enhancer or impact note, contributing to the authenticity of complex fragrance compositions. The compound is volatile, contributing primarily to the top notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring principles.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with regional safety standards is advised.
• Latin America: No specific data; adherence to local regulatory frameworks is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, dipropyl tetrasulfide should be used within established safety limits, although specific ADI or MSDI values are not clearly reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications should consider potential irritation or sensitization, with reference to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation and protective measures are advised. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications may differ, necessitating context-specific safety assessments.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Dipropyl tetrasulfide is valued for its ability to impart a realistic garlic note in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other sulfur compounds and can enhance the authenticity of savory profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma. It is often under-utilized in fragrance applications due to its intense odor, but when used judiciously, it can add depth and realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on dipropyl tetrasulfide is well-established in terms of its sensory characteristics and functional roles. However, specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include precise regulatory listings and comprehensive exposure limits.

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 2026-06-10 08:22:52 GMT (p2)