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

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl Anthranilate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl 2-aminobenzoate
• CAS Number: 134-20-3
• FEMA Number: 2682
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.003
• Molecular Formula: C8H9NO2
• Molecular Weight: 151.16 g/mol

Methyl anthranilate is an ester of anthranilic acid and methanol. It features an amino group and an ester functional group, which contribute to its characteristic grape-like odor. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its sensory properties, making it a valuable compound in both flavor and fragrance industries.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl anthranilate is renowned for its sweet, fruity, and floral aroma, reminiscent of Concord grapes. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with a high diffusion rate. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a distinct grape-like character. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations, enhancing its utility in formulations where a pronounced grape note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl anthranilate naturally occurs in various fruits, including grapes, oranges, and strawberries. It is also found in certain flowers, such as jasmine and tuberose. The compound can form through enzymatic processes in plants, contributing to the natural aroma profile of these sources. Its presence in natural products supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" in regulatory contexts.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl anthranilate is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in grape, berry, and citrus profiles. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and appeal of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in confectionery and lower levels in beverages. It is generally stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

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, often within the floral, oriental, and gourmand families. It serves as a modifier, adding a sweet, fruity nuance to perfumes and personal care products. Concentration ranges vary, typically from trace amounts to 1% in fine fragrances. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.003.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are prevalent, though formulators should verify country-specific guidelines to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, methyl anthranilate is considered safe within established use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but supported by GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid 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 distinct grape-like aroma, making it indispensable in grape and berry flavor formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing complexity and depth. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in non-fruit applications where its unique profile could add unexpected interest.

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 clarification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily concerning specific toxicological thresholds.

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 2026-08-24 05:58:56 GMT (p2)