FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate (CAS: 2497-18-9)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate
- IUPAC Name: (E)-hex-2-en-1-yl acetate
- CAS Number: 2497-18-9
- FEMA Number: 3171
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.271
- Molecular Formula: C8H14O2
- Molecular Weight: 142.20 g/mol
(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is an ester compound characterized by its acetate functional group, which contributes to its fruity and green odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated hexenyl chain is significant for its odor characteristics, providing a fresh, green note that is often associated with the smell of freshly cut grass or green apples.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is known for its fresh, green, and fruity odor, reminiscent of unripe bananas and green apples. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound serves as an impact note, providing a crisp and refreshing quality to compositions. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its sensory impact is well recognized in the industry.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This compound naturally occurs in various fruits and plants, including apples, bananas, and pears. It is formed through enzymatic reactions during the ripening process of fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks, depending on its extraction and processing methods.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, banana, and pear. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of fruit profiles. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. The compound is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may be susceptible to hydrolysis under acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is valued for its fresh, green, and fruity notes, making it a popular choice in floral and fruity fragrance families. It is used to impart a natural, crisp quality to perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. The compound is considered a top to middle note due to its moderate volatility.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.271.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions.
While explicit approvals are common, formulators should verify specific country regulations due to potential variability.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is considered safe at typical use levels, with no specific ADI established but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS. Dermal exposure in fragrances is also deemed safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use concentrations. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed to prevent overexposure.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is prized for its ability to impart a fresh, green note to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral compounds, enhancing the overall freshness and authenticity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overly sharp or artificial aroma. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance the overall profile without dominating.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in natural occurrence and formation pathways may exist. Known data gaps include specific taste and odor thresholds, which are not widely reported.
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 06:28:06 GMT (p2)