FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate (CAS: 41519-23-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Leaf alcohol isobutyrate
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl 2-methylpropanoate
• CAS Number: 41519-23-7
• FEMA Number: 3411
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.271
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is characterized by its ester functional group, which is crucial for its fruity and green odor profile. The presence of the (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl moiety contributes to its fresh, leafy aroma, often associated with green, unripe fruits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is known for its fresh, green, and fruity odor, reminiscent of freshly cut grass and unripe bananas. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a natural, leafy freshness that enhances the realism of fruit and green notes.

Taste and odor thresholds for this compound are not well-documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is naturally found in various fruits and plants, contributing to their characteristic green and fruity aromas. It is often formed through enzymatic processes in plants, where it acts as a volatile organic compound involved in plant communication and defense.

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is considered a natural flavoring agent, aligning with "natural flavor" designations when derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is used to impart fresh, green, and fruity notes. It is commonly utilized in fruit flavors, especially those mimicking apple, pear, and banana. The compound acts as a modifier, enhancing the authenticity and complexity of flavor profiles.

Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is valued for its ability to provide a fresh, green top note. It is used in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, fruity, and green compositions. The compound serves as a trace realism enhancer, adding a natural freshness to perfumes and personal care products.

Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it a prominent top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.

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: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with some regional variations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but 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, (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is considered safe at typical use levels, with no specific ADI established. It falls under the threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) for flavoring substances.

Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, but formulators should adhere to IFRA guidelines to avoid sensitization risks.

Inhalation exposure is generally safe at typical fragrance concentrations, though occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is prized for its ability to impart a natural, fresh character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing overall complexity. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl isobutyrate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps include specific taste and odor thresholds.

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 2026-02-27 14:49:15 GMT (p2)