FlavScents AInsights Entry for Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate (CAS: 13532-18-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl 3-(methylthio)propanoate
• CAS Number: 13532-18-8
• FEMA Number: 3874
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.780
• Molecular Formula: C5H10O2S
• Molecular Weight: 134.20 g/mol

Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is a sulfur-containing ester, characterized by its thioether functional group. This structure contributes to its distinctive odor profile, often described as fruity and sulfurous, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is known for its potent fruity, pineapple-like aroma with a sulfurous undertone. It is often used as an impact note in flavor compositions, providing a realistic fruitiness. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Its sensory role is typically as a modifier or enhancer, adding complexity and authenticity to fruit flavors.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is naturally found in various fruits, including pineapple and passion fruit, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can also form through enzymatic reactions during the ripening of fruits or fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is widely used in fruit flavor formulations, particularly for tropical fruits like pineapple and passion fruit. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and depth of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is used in fruity and tropical fragrance families. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations are low, often less than 0.1%, due to its potent aroma. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like perfumes and air fresheners.

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 FL No. 09.780.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

The compound is widely accepted for both flavor and fragrance use, with harmonized regulations across major markets. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is considered safe at typical use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its use in small quantities, but occupational safety measures should be in place to minimize exposure during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is valued for its ability to impart a realistic fruitiness to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and tropical notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potent aroma, which can easily dominate a composition if overused. It is often under-utilized in non-fruit applications where a subtle fruity hint could add depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally documented, 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 2026-04-23 05:13:28 GMT (p2)