FlavScents AInsights Entry: Methyl Acetate (CAS: 79-20-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Methyl acetate, also known as acetic acid methyl ester, is a volatile organic compound with the CAS number 79-20-9. It is recognized by the FEMA number 2745. The molecular formula for methyl acetate is C3H6O2, and it has a molecular weight of 74.08 g/mol. Structurally, methyl acetate is an ester, characterized by its functional group -COOCH3, which contributes to its fruity odor profile. The ester linkage is crucial for its volatility and sensory attributes, making it a valuable compound in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity odor reminiscent of apples and pears. It is often described as having a sweet, ethereal, and slightly pungent aroma. The compound is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh and crisp character. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its high volatility suggests a significant diffusion capacity, making it effective even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through the esterification of acetic acid with methanol, a reaction that can occur naturally in fruits or be catalyzed in industrial settings. Its presence in natural products allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" under certain regulatory frameworks, provided it is derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, pear, and banana. It serves as a top note, providing freshness and enhancing the overall aroma profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. Methyl acetate is relatively stable under normal conditions but can hydrolyze in the presence of strong acids or bases.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, methyl acetate is utilized in various product types, including perfumes, personal care products, and household cleaners. It is often employed as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top notes of a fragrance composition. Its volatility makes it suitable for applications where a quick evaporation rate is desired, enhancing the initial burst of scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, methyl acetate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. The European Union permits its use under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, with an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, methyl acetate is approved for use in flavors, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR also allow its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Methyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended limits. Oral exposure through flavor use is deemed low risk, with no specific ADI established, but it falls under the threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) for flavoring substances. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation exposure is primarily a concern in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation is recommended to minimize risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing their impact. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility, which can lead to rapid evaporation if not properly encapsulated or stabilized. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented uses, though specific sensory thresholds are less frequently reported. Regulatory frameworks are harmonized across major regions, with minor variations in specific country requirements.

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

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 2026-01-30 19:28:49 GMT (p2)