FlavScents AInsights Entry for Linalyl Propionate (CAS: 144-39-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Linalyl propionate is a naturally occurring ester commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its IUPAC name is propan-1-ol, 3,7-dimethyl-, propanoate. The CAS number for linalyl propionate is 144-39-8. It is also identified by FEMA number 2639. The molecular formula is C13H22O2, and it has a molecular weight of 210.32 g/mol. Linalyl propionate is characterized by its ester functional group, which contributes to its fruity and floral odor profile, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Linalyl propionate is known for its pleasant, fruity, and floral aroma, often described as reminiscent of bergamot and lavender. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in various formulations. The taste and odor thresholds for linalyl propionate are not clearly reported, but it is typically used to impart a fresh, sweet, and slightly citrusy character to products. Its role in sensory applications is often as a modifier or enhancer, providing background realism and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Linalyl propionate is found naturally in several essential oils, including those of lavender, bergamot, and petitgrain. It is formed through the esterification of linalool with propionic acid. This compound is relevant to "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, as it can be derived from natural sources through processes such as steam distillation or cold pressing.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, linalyl propionate is used in a variety of applications, including beverages, confectionery, and baked goods. It contributes to flavor profiles by adding fruity and floral notes, often enhancing citrus and berry flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. Linalyl propionate is generally stable under typical 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

Linalyl propionate is a versatile ingredient in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral, citrus, and chypre fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing freshness and complexity to perfumes, soaps, and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary, but it is often used at levels of 0.1% to 1% depending on the desired effect. Linalyl propionate is a top to middle note, contributing to the initial and heart phases of a fragrance's evaporation profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, linalyl propionate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, linalyl propionate is generally accepted for use in flavors and fragrances, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, but formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Linalyl propionate is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no specific ADI or MSDI established, but it is generally used at low concentrations. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is also considered safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Linalyl propionate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity, and floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and floral compounds, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma. It is often under-used in formulations where a subtle, natural freshness is desired. Formulators should consider its stability and compatibility with other ingredients to maximize its impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on linalyl propionate is well-established, with comprehensive information available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, though some specific numeric values, such as taste and odor thresholds, are not clearly reported. Regulatory information is generally harmonized across major regions, but formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.

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 2026-04-17 10:44:55 GMT (p2)