FlavScents AInsights Entry for Methyl 2-Methyl Butyrate (CAS: 868-57-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl 2-methyl butyrate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl 2-methylbutanoate
• CAS Number: 868-57-5
• FEMA Number: 2713
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.038
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is an ester compound characterized by its fruity odor, which is primarily attributed to its ester functional group. This compound is often used in flavor and fragrance formulations due to its pleasant, fruity aroma reminiscent of apples and pineapples.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is known for its sweet, fruity odor with notes of apple and pineapple. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties, making it suitable for use as an impact note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable aroma even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples and pineapples. It is formed through enzymatic processes in these fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. This compound is often used in formulations labeled as "natural flavor" due to its presence in natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is widely used in the flavor industry, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and desserts. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh, fruity aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense fruit flavors. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, methyl 2-methyl butyrate is used in a variety of product types, including perfumes, air fresheners, and personal care products. It is often employed as a top note due to its high volatility and fresh, fruity character. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

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 number 09.038.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally recognized as safe, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, methyl 2-methyl butyrate is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory authorities. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to the compound's 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 2-methyl butyrate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity aroma that enhances both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, but care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an overly synthetic character. Formulators should consider its volatility and adjust concentrations accordingly to achieve the desired sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl 2-methyl butyrate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally documented, some variability in use levels and regulatory interpretations may exist across regions.

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 2026-01-20 17:11:55 GMT (p2)