FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Methyl-2-pentenoic Acid (CAS: 3142-72-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-Methyl-2-pentenoic acid
• IUPAC Name: 2-Methylpent-2-enoic acid
• CAS Number: 3142-72-1
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C6H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 114.14 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: This compound contains a carboxylic acid group and a double bond, which contribute to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of the double bond in the structure is often associated with unsaturated fatty acid derivatives, which can impart a sharp, pungent odor.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Methyl-2-pentenoic acid is characterized by a pungent, sour odor with a hint of fatty acid-like sharpness. It is often described as having a strong, penetrating aroma that can be perceived at low concentrations. The compound's sensory role is typically as an impact note, providing a distinctive sharpness that can enhance the realism of certain flavor profiles. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature, but its intense aroma suggests a low threshold.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Methyl-2-pentenoic acid is not commonly found in nature and is typically synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. It may be formed through synthetic pathways involving the oxidation of corresponding alcohols or aldehydes. Its relevance to "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations is limited due to its synthetic origin, although it can be used in formulations that aim to mimic natural profiles.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is used to impart a sharp, sour note that can enhance the authenticity of fruit and dairy flavors. It is particularly useful in creating complex profiles where a hint of acidity is desired. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests low ppm levels due to its potent aroma. Stability considerations include sensitivity to oxidation and potential changes in aroma profile under high heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

This compound is used in fragrance formulations to provide a sharp, pungent note that can enhance the freshness and realism of certain scent profiles. It is often employed in trace amounts to modify or enhance the impact of other fragrance components. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges are qualitative, with usage generally limited to low levels due to its intense aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general safety and labeling requirements.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data available; general safety and regulatory compliance should be ensured.
• Latin America: Specific regulatory status not clearly reported; adherence to local safety standards is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; general safety practices should be followed, considering its potent aroma.
• Dermal Exposure: Potential for irritation or sensitization is not well-documented; 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 requiring careful consideration of dermal and inhalation exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-Methyl-2-pentenoic acid is valued for its ability to impart a sharp, sour note that enhances the realism of flavor and fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with fruity and dairy notes, providing a distinctive edge. Formulators should be cautious of its potent aroma, which can easily overpower other components if not used judiciously. It is often under-used due to its intense character, but when balanced correctly, it can significantly enhance a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is limited, with much of the information derived from industry practice rather than comprehensive studies. Known data gaps include specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological profiles. Formulators should rely on industry-typical practices and consult authoritative sources for the most current safety and regulatory information.

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 2026-07-06 12:24:08 GMT (p2)