FlavScents AInsights Entry: 3-Phenyl Propyl Acetate (CAS: 122-72-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 3-Phenyl propyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: 3-Phenylpropyl acetate
• CAS Number: 122-72-5
• FEMA Number: 2899
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.034
• Molecular Formula: C11H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 178.23 g/mol

3-Phenyl propyl acetate is an ester compound characterized by the presence of an acetate group linked to a phenylpropyl moiety. The ester functional group is crucial for its characteristic fruity and floral odor, which is widely utilized in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

3-Phenyl propyl acetate is known for its pleasant, sweet, floral, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of honey and roses. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound serves as an impact note in many applications, providing a distinct floral character that enhances the overall sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

3-Phenyl propyl acetate is naturally found in various fruits and flowers, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through enzymatic reactions in plants, where it acts as a volatile compound aiding in pollinator attraction. Its presence in natural sources 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

In the flavor industry, 3-phenyl propyl acetate is used to impart floral and fruity notes to a variety of products, including beverages, candies, and baked goods. It functions as a flavor enhancer, providing depth and complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering floral notes. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, though care should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures and acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

3-Phenyl propyl acetate is a valuable component in the fragrance industry, often used in floral and fruity fragrance families. It serves as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products vary from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its moderate volatility allows it to blend well with other fragrance components, providing a balanced olfactory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

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

The regulatory landscape for 3-phenyl propyl acetate is well-established, with harmonized approvals across major markets. However, formulators should verify specific regional requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 3-phenyl propyl acetate is considered safe within the typical use levels in food products, with no adverse effects reported at these concentrations. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place to prevent excessive inhalation during manufacturing.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

3-Phenyl propyl acetate is prized for its ability to impart a natural floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and floral compounds, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. Formulators should balance its use with complementary notes to achieve the desired sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 3-phenyl propyl acetate is well-documented, with robust sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-established, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Overall, the compound is considered a reliable and versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance applications.

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 11:20:31 GMT (p2)