FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid (CAS: 13794-15-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid
• IUPAC Name: 2-(4-methoxyphenoxy)propanoic acid
• CAS Number: 13794-15-5
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H12O4
• Molecular Weight: 196.20 g/mol

2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid is characterized by the presence of a methoxy group attached to a phenoxy moiety, which contributes to its chemical reactivity and potential sensory properties. The propionic acid group may influence its solubility and interaction with other compounds in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid is not widely documented for its sensory properties in flavor and fragrance applications. However, compounds with similar structures often exhibit mild, sweet, or floral notes. The presence of the methoxy group can enhance the diffusion and intensity of the odor, although specific thresholds for taste or odor are not clearly reported.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is not commonly found in nature and is typically synthesized for specific applications. Its formation is generally achieved through chemical synthesis rather than natural processes, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid is not a standard flavoring agent and lacks extensive documentation in flavor applications. Its potential use could be as a modifier or background note in complex flavor systems. Typical use levels are not well-documented, but industry practices suggest starting at low ppm levels to assess compatibility and impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid may serve as a modifier or trace realism component, contributing subtle nuances to floral or sweet fragrance families. Its volatility suggests a role in the middle notes of a fragrance composition. Quantitative concentration ranges are not clearly reported, but it is likely used in trace amounts.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed in FEMA GRAS; regulatory status should be verified for specific applications.
• European Union: Not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; consult EFSA for updates.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit alignment with EU regulations; verify current status.
• Asia: Limited information; check national regulations in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Regulatory status not well-documented; consult local authorities in Brazil and MERCOSUR.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found; assess based on structural analogs and consult toxicology experts.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data; potential for irritation or sensitization should be evaluated in formulations.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.

Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, necessitating a case-by-case assessment.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid can be valuable for its potential to subtly modify and enhance complex formulations. Formulators should explore synergies with other floral or sweet compounds while being cautious of overuse, which may lead to unintended sensory effects. Its role as a trace component requires precise measurement and testing.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-(4-methoxyphenoxy) propionic acid is limited, with much of the information being industry-typical but undocumented. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and comprehensive regulatory approvals. Formulators should proceed with caution and verify information through authoritative sources.

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 2026-02-19 13:44:31 GMT (p2)