FlavScents AInsights Entry: Geranyl Acetate (CAS: 105-87-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Geranyl acetate is a naturally occurring ester with the IUPAC name 3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dien-1-yl acetate. It is identified by the CAS number 105-87-3 and has a FEMA number of 2509. Other identifiers include its FL number 09.008 and CoE number 117. The molecular formula of geranyl acetate is C12H20O2, with a molecular weight of 196.29 g/mol. This compound features an ester functional group, which is crucial for its characteristic fruity and floral odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated carbon chain contributes to its volatility and diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Geranyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity, and floral aroma, often described as reminiscent of roses and geraniums. It exhibits a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it an effective impact note in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable fragrance even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it contributes a sweet, fruity taste with nuances of pear and apple, enhancing the overall sensory experience by adding depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Geranyl acetate is naturally found in various essential oils, including those of lemongrass, geranium, and lavender. It is biosynthesized in plants through the acetylation of geraniol, a process facilitated by specific enzymes. This compound is often associated with the "natural flavor" designation due to its widespread occurrence in nature and its derivation from plant sources. Its presence in essential oils contributes to the characteristic scents of many aromatic plants.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, geranyl acetate is utilized across a range of categories, including fruit, floral, and citrus flavors. It serves as a key component in creating realistic fruit profiles, particularly in pear, apple, and berry flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. Geranyl acetate is generally stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Geranyl acetate is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral and fruity fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the freshness and naturalness of compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products vary from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance, providing an initial burst of freshness that transitions smoothly into the heart of the scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, geranyl acetate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. The European Union lists it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, indicating its approved status for flavoring purposes. The United Kingdom, post-Brexit, aligns with EU regulations. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific guidelines for its use in flavors and fragrances, generally aligning with international standards. In Latin America, regulatory frameworks such as those in Brazil and MERCOSUR also permit its use, subject to concentration limits.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Geranyl acetate is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances when used within recommended limits. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical usage levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines provide specific concentration limits to mitigate sensitization risks. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Geranyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a natural, fruity-floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and terpenes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively, particularly in delicate compositions. It is often underutilized in citrus profiles, where it can add depth and authenticity. Balancing its concentration with complementary notes is key to achieving the desired sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on geranyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented nuances may exist in specific applications. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines provided by major regulatory bodies. However, ongoing research may further refine usage recommendations and safety assessments.

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 2026-08-25 22:43:43 GMT (p2)