FlavScents AInsights Entry for Heliotropyl Isobutyrate

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Heliotropyl isobutyrate
• IUPAC Name: 1-(4-Methoxyphenyl)ethyl 2-methylpropanoate
• CAS Number: 8/5/61
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C12H16O3
• Molecular Weight: 208.26 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Heliotropyl isobutyrate contains an ester functional group, which is often associated with fruity and floral odors. The methoxyphenyl moiety contributes to its sweet, floral scent reminiscent of heliotrope flowers.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Heliotropyl isobutyrate is characterized by its sweet, floral odor with nuances of heliotrope and almond. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties, making it suitable for both flavor and fragrance applications. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct floral character that can enhance the overall sensory profile of a product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Heliotropyl isobutyrate is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances. Its formation typically involves esterification reactions, where an alcohol and an acid react to form the ester compound. This synthetic origin means it is not typically classified under "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Heliotropyl isobutyrate is used in various flavor categories, including confectionery, bakery, and dairy products. It serves as a functional component that imparts a sweet, floral note, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, heliotropyl isobutyrate is utilized in floral and oriental fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility allows it to provide an initial burst of floral scent, which can enhance the overall fragrance experience.

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 standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; assumed to be safe under general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; generally follows international safety standards.
• Latin America: No specific data; assumed to follow international norms.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI available; use should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; formulators should adhere to IFRA guidelines for fragrance use.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Heliotropyl isobutyrate is valued for its ability to impart a sweet, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the complexity and appeal of the final product. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as its distinct scent can dominate a composition. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can provide unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on heliotropyl isobutyrate is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are limited, requiring formulators to rely on general industry practices and safety assessments. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and specific regulatory approvals in certain regions.

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 15:23:54 GMT (p2)