AInsights Entry for Acrylic Acid (CAS: 79-10-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Acrylic Acid
• IUPAC Name: Prop-2-enoic acid
• CAS Number: 79-10-7
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.001
• Molecular Formula: C3H4O2
• Molecular Weight: 72.06 g/mol

Acrylic acid is a simple unsaturated carboxylic acid characterized by the presence of a vinyl group directly attached to the carboxyl group. This structure contributes to its reactivity and its ability to form polymers. The functional groups present in acrylic acid are crucial for its odor profile, which is often described as acrid and pungent, with a characteristic sharpness that can be attributed to the carboxylic acid group.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acrylic acid is known for its strong, acrid odor, which can be described as pungent and somewhat sour. The intensity of its odor is high, making it a significant impact note in formulations where it is used. The diffusion of acrylic acid is rapid due to its volatility, which can be a consideration in both flavor and fragrance applications. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its potent sensory characteristics suggest that even low concentrations can be perceptible.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acrylic acid is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through the oxidation of propylene, a process often utilized in industrial settings. It does not typically qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origins and production methods. However, its derivatives and polymers are widely used in various applications.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Acrylic acid is not typically used directly in flavor formulations due to its strong and unpleasant odor. However, its derivatives, such as esters, may be used in flavor systems to impart specific notes. The typical use levels of acrylic acid itself in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, as it is generally avoided in favor of more palatable compounds. Stability considerations include its susceptibility to polymerization and reactivity under heat and varying pH conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, acrylic acid is primarily used as a precursor for the synthesis of acrylate esters, which are valued for their pleasant odors. These esters can be found in various fragrance families, contributing to floral, fruity, or fresh notes. Acrylic acid itself is not typically used directly due to its harsh odor. Its volatility classifies it as a top note, but its direct use is limited.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Acrylic acid is not listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to IFRA guidelines.
• European Union: Regulated under REACH; not typically used in food applications.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Regulations vary; typically not used in food.
• Latin America: Similar to US and EU; not commonly used in food.

Explicit approvals for acrylic acid in flavor applications are limited, with more focus on its derivatives. Harmonized assumptions exist for its use in industrial applications, but country-specific variability can occur.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Acrylic acid poses potential risks primarily through dermal and inhalation exposure. It can cause skin irritation and sensitization, making it relevant to IFRA guidelines for fragrance use. Inhalation exposure can lead to respiratory irritation, necessitating occupational safety measures. Oral exposure is less common due to its limited use in food, but it is considered toxic if ingested in significant quantities. The risk profiles differ between food and fragrance applications, with more stringent controls in place for direct consumer exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acrylic acid is valuable primarily as a precursor in the synthesis of acrylate esters, which are widely used in both flavor and fragrance industries. Formulators should be aware of its reactivity and potential for polymerization. Common pitfalls include overuse leading to undesirable sensory characteristics and stability issues. It is frequently under-used directly due to its harsh odor but is critical in the production of more pleasant derivatives.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on acrylic acid is well-established in terms of its chemical properties and industrial applications. However, its direct use in flavor and fragrance formulations is less documented, with industry practices focusing on its derivatives. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory approvals for direct use in consumer products.

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 (not applicable for direct use)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable)

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 2026-07-13 17:59:36 GMT (p2)