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: Not available
- Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
- Molecular Formula: C5H10O2S
- Molecular Weight: 134.20 g/mol
Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is characterized by the presence of a thioether group, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The ester functional group is crucial for its volatility and sensory attributes, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is known for its fruity, sulfurous odor with nuances reminiscent of cooked vegetables and tropical fruits. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a unique character that can enhance the authenticity of fruit flavors.
Taste and odor thresholds for this compound are not clearly reported in the literature, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is not widely reported as a natural constituent in foods or plants. It is primarily synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. The compound can be formed through synthetic pathways involving the esterification of 3-(methylthio)propanoic acid with methanol.
Its synthetic origin does not preclude its use in "natural flavor" designations, provided it is derived from natural precursors through acceptable processes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is utilized in various flavor categories, including fruit, vegetable, and savory profiles. It acts as a functional modifier, enhancing the authenticity and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering sulfurous notes.
The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments, which should be considered during formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is used in trace amounts to impart a fresh, green, and slightly sulfurous note. It is suitable for use in various fragrance families, including green, fruity, and gourmand. The compound contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.
Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired intensity and character.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; usage should comply with national regulations in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries.
- Latin America: No specific data available; general compliance with MERCOSUR regulations is advised.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values reported; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use potentially requiring more stringent safety evaluations due to dermal and inhalation exposure routes.
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 unique sulfurous note that can enhance the authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors. It synergizes well with other sulfur-containing compounds and can be used to create complex, layered profiles.
Formulators should be cautious of its potent odor, which can easily dominate a blend if overused. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add depth and realism.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on methyl 3-(methyl thio) propionate is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, which necessitate reliance on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines.
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 2026-06-12 05:48:55 GMT (p2)
