FlavScents AInsights Entry: Methyl Myristate (CAS: 124-10-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl Myristate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl tetradecanoate
• CAS Number: 124-10-7
• FEMA Number: 2710
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C15H30O2
• Molecular Weight: 242.40 g/mol

Methyl myristate is an ester derived from myristic acid and methanol. It is characterized by its long carbon chain, which contributes to its low volatility and waxy odor profile. The ester functional group is crucial for its role in both flavor and fragrance applications, providing a smooth, creamy note that is often used to impart a sense of richness and depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl myristate is known for its mild, waxy, and slightly fatty odor, reminiscent of coconut oil. It is not typically used as a primary impact note but rather as a background modifier to enhance the creamy and smooth characteristics of a formulation. The compound has a relatively high odor threshold, meaning it requires higher concentrations to be perceptible compared to more volatile esters.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl myristate naturally occurs in various plant and animal fats, most notably in nutmeg and palm kernel oil. It is formed through the esterification of myristic acid, a common saturated fatty acid, with methanol. This compound is often used in products labeled as "natural" due to its derivation from naturally occurring sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl myristate is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to impart a creamy, fatty note that enhances the richness of dairy and coconut flavors. It is commonly used in confectionery, bakery, and dairy products. Typical use levels in food range from 10 to 100 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to a waxy mouthfeel. It is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, methyl myristate is valued for its ability to add a smooth, creamy base note, often used in conjunction with other esters to create a balanced olfactory profile. It is found in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, where it contributes to a luxurious texture. Typical concentrations range from 0.1% to 1% in finished products, 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 No. 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Methyl myristate is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications, with a low risk of toxicity due to its high molecular weight and low volatility. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational hazards.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl myristate is prized for its ability to impart a creamy, smooth texture in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fatty acids, enhancing the overall richness of a formulation. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to a waxy or greasy perception. It is often underutilized in formulations seeking a natural label, despite its natural occurrence.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl myristate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented uses, though specific concentration ranges may vary. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted.

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 2026-08-25 05:35:46 GMT (p2)