FlavScents AInsights Entry for Acetaldehyde Dibutyl Acetal (CAS: 871-22-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal
• IUPAC Name: 1,1-Dibutoxyethane
• CAS Number: 871-22-7
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H22O2
• Molecular Weight: 174.28 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is an acetal, characterized by two ether groups attached to the same carbon. This structure contributes to its stability and influences its odor profile, often imparting fruity and floral notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is known for its pleasant, fruity aroma with subtle floral undertones. It is often described as having a green apple-like scent, which can be both fresh and slightly sweet. The intensity of its odor is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is typically as an impact note, enhancing the overall complexity of a fragrance or flavor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for industrial use. It can be formed through the reaction of acetaldehyde with butanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. This synthetic pathway is typical for creating acetals, which are valued for their stability and desirable sensory properties. Its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" is contingent upon the sourcing and processing methods used in its production.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is utilized in various flavor applications, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as apple, pear, and tropical fruit profiles. It serves as a functional modifier, enhancing the authenticity and depth of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering notes. Its stability under heat and acidic conditions makes it a versatile component in flavor formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is incorporated into floral and fruity fragrance families. It acts as a modifier, providing a fresh, green apple-like top note that enhances the overall fragrance complexity. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility classifies it as a top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
• Latin America: No specific data; adherence to MERCOSUR and local regulations is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; general safety practices should be followed.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be in place.

Risk profiles may vary between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring careful consideration of dermal and inhalation exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity and appeal of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a subtle, fresh top note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on acetaldehyde dibutyl acetal is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, which necessitate cautious use and adherence to general safety guidelines.

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 2026-03-12 19:36:57 GMT (p2)