FlavScents AInsights Entry: Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (CAS: 77-90-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Acetyl tributyl citrate, commonly referred to as ATBC, is a widely used plasticizer and flavoring agent. Its IUPAC name is 2-acetoxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid tributyl ester. The CAS number for acetyl tributyl citrate is 77-90-7. It is also identified by FEMA number 2214. The molecular formula of ATBC is C20H34O8, and it has a molecular weight of 402.48 g/mol. Structurally, ATBC is an ester with functional groups that contribute to its low volatility and high plasticizing efficiency, making it suitable for various applications in flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acetyl tributyl citrate is characterized by a mild, sweet, and fruity odor, often described as having a slight citrus note. It is not typically used for its flavor or odor impact but rather as a modifier or carrier in formulations. The sensory threshold for ATBC is relatively high, indicating that it does not contribute significantly to the overall sensory profile at typical use levels. Its primary role in sensory applications is to enhance the stability and longevity of other more volatile compounds.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acetyl tributyl citrate is not naturally occurring and is synthesized industrially. It is produced through the esterification of citric acid with butanol and acetic anhydride. This synthetic origin means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks. Its formation does not involve natural biochemical pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, acetyl tributyl citrate is primarily used as a plasticizer and stabilizer rather than a direct flavoring agent. It is employed in flavor systems to improve the flexibility and durability of flavor films and encapsulations. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the specific application and desired effect. ATBC is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and varying pH levels, making it a versatile component in flavor formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Acetyl tributyl citrate is used in fragrances primarily as a fixative and plasticizer. It is found in a variety of fragrance families and product types, including personal care products and household items. Its role is to enhance the longevity and stability of fragrance compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the product type and desired performance. ATBC contributes to the base notes of a fragrance due to its low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, acetyl tributyl citrate is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FEMA for use in food applications. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and is assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, ATBC is approved for use in food and fragrance applications, although specific limits may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Acetyl tributyl citrate is considered safe for oral exposure at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory authorities. For dermal exposure, it is non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for use in personal care products. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acetyl tributyl citrate is valued for its plasticizing properties, which enhance the flexibility and durability of flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other esters and stabilizers, providing a balanced performance in complex systems. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to unwanted plastic-like characteristics, and underuse, which may result in insufficient stability. Formulators should carefully balance ATBC levels to achieve the desired effect without compromising product quality.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on acetyl tributyl citrate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented uses, although some regional regulatory nuances may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, and regulatory ambiguities are primarily related to evolving standards in emerging markets.

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 2026-08-28 07:09:19 GMT (p2)