FlavScents AInsights Entry for Methyl Anthranilate (CAS: 134-20-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Methyl anthranilate, also known as methyl 2-aminobenzoate, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 134-20-3. It is recognized by the FEMA number 2682. Other identifiers include the FL number 09.003 and CoE number 180. The molecular formula for methyl anthranilate is C8H9NO2, and it has a molecular weight of 151.16 g/mol. This compound features an ester functional group, which is significant for its characteristic grape-like odor. The presence of the amino group contributes to its unique scent profile, making it valuable in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl anthranilate is renowned for its sweet, fruity, and floral odor, often described as reminiscent of Concord grapes. It is a potent aroma compound with a moderate to high intensity and good diffusion properties. The taste threshold for methyl anthranilate is relatively low, allowing it to impart a strong flavor even at minimal concentrations. In sensory applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a distinct grape-like character that enhances the realism of fruit flavors.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl anthranilate occurs naturally in various fruits, including grapes, oranges, and strawberries. It is also found in certain flowers, such as jasmine and tuberose. The compound can be formed through the esterification of anthranilic acid with methanol. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl anthranilate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in grape, berry, and citrus profiles. It acts as a key impact note, providing authenticity and depth to fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in confectionery and lower levels in beverages. The compound is stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments, necessitating careful formulation considerations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, methyl anthranilate is utilized in floral and fruity compositions, contributing to the top and middle notes of perfumes. It is commonly found in products such as colognes, body sprays, and personal care items. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to provide an immediate impact, while its floral nuances add complexity to fragrance blends.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, methyl anthranilate is approved for use as a flavoring agent under FEMA GRAS status. The European Union recognizes it under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns with EU regulations, maintaining similar approvals. In Asia, countries like Japan and China permit its use in flavors, though specific concentration limits may vary. In Latin America, including Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, methyl anthranilate is generally accepted, but formulators should verify local regulations for compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Methyl anthranilate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended limits. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl anthranilate is valued for its ability to impart a natural grape-like aroma and flavor, making it indispensable in certain formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if overused, and it is often underutilized in non-fruit applications where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl anthranilate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily related to specific regional regulatory updates.

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 2026-06-10 16:17:56 GMT (p2)