FlavScents AInsights Entry for Citronellyl Propionate (CAS: 141-14-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Citronellyl Propionate
• IUPAC Name: 3,7-Dimethyloct-6-en-1-yl propanoate
• CAS Number: 141-14-0
• FEMA Number: 2310
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.271
• Molecular Formula: C13H24O2
• Molecular Weight: 212.33 g/mol

Citronellyl propionate is an ester formed from citronellol and propionic acid. The compound features a characteristic ester functional group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The structure contributes to its fruity and floral scent, making it valuable in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Citronellyl propionate is known for its pleasant, fruity, and floral aroma, often described as sweet and reminiscent of rose with a hint of citrus. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable as both an impact note and a background modifier in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable fragrance even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Citronellyl propionate is naturally found in various essential oils, including rose and geranium oils. It can also be synthesized through the esterification of citronellol with propionic acid. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, citronellyl propionate is used to impart fruity and floral notes, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and desserts. It serves as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures and acidic environments, which may lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Citronellyl propionate is utilized in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, fruity, and citrus compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its moderate volatility allows it to provide a lasting scent without being overwhelming.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Citronellyl propionate is approved for use as a flavoring agent under FEMA GRAS status.
• European Union: It is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, indicating its approval for flavor use.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards, maintaining its approved status.
• Asia: In Japan and China, citronellyl propionate is permitted for use in flavors, subject to local regulations.
• Latin America: Countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR recognize its use in flavors, with specific guidelines varying by region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, citronellyl propionate is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but inferred from similar compounds. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling in concentrated forms.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Citronellyl propionate is valued for its ability to enhance fruity and floral notes in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and floral compounds, providing a balanced and appealing scent profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a blend if used excessively, and it is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on citronellyl propionate is well-established, with comprehensive information available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the compound's safety and efficacy are supported by robust evidence.

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 2026-01-28 07:17:40 GMT (p2)