FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Laurate (CAS: 106-33-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Ethyl laurate, also known as ethyl dodecanoate, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 106-33-2. It is identified by the IUPAC name ethyl dodecanoate. The compound is recognized by the FEMA number 2442. Other identifiers include the FL number 02.015 and CoE number 02.015. The molecular formula for ethyl laurate is C14H28O2, and it has a molecular weight of 228.37 g/mol. Structurally, ethyl laurate is an ester formed from lauric acid and ethanol, featuring a long carbon chain that contributes to its characteristic waxy and fruity odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl laurate is characterized by a mild, waxy, and fruity odor, often described as reminiscent of coconut or sweet cream. Its sensory profile is subtle, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively high, which means it does not dominate but rather complements other notes in a blend. In flavor applications, ethyl laurate is used to impart a creamy, coconut-like taste, enhancing the richness and depth of the overall flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl laurate naturally occurs in various fruits and essential oils, including coconut and palm kernel oils. It can also be formed through the esterification of lauric acid with ethanol, a process that can occur naturally in some fermentation processes. Due to its presence in natural sources, ethyl laurate can be labeled as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" in certain regulatory contexts, provided it is derived from natural processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, ethyl laurate is primarily used in dairy, coconut, and tropical fruit flavors. It serves as a functional component that enhances creaminess and imparts a subtle coconut note. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor profiles. Ethyl laurate is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH, but may degrade under extreme conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Ethyl laurate is utilized in fragrance formulations for its ability to impart a creamy, waxy note that enhances the richness of floral and fruity compositions. It is commonly found in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, where it contributes to the overall sensory experience. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance applications are between 0.1% and 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Ethyl laurate is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, ethyl laurate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 02.015. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, ethyl laurate is permitted in Japan and China, with specific use conditions. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR recognize its use under harmonized standards, although specific regulations may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl laurate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no specific ADI established, but it is included in the TTC (Threshold of Toxicological Concern) framework. Dermal exposure in fragrance use shows low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl laurate is valued for its ability to enhance creaminess and impart a subtle coconut note in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other esters and lactones, providing a smooth, rounded profile. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, as excessive concentrations can lead to a waxy, overpowering note. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance overall harmony.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl laurate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are documented, though some specific use levels may vary based on proprietary formulations. Known data gaps are minimal, with most regulatory ambiguities resolved through harmonized standards.

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 2026-04-15 01:24:18 GMT (p2)