AInsights Entry for (E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid (CAS: 16957-70-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): (E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid
- IUPAC Name: (E)-2-methylpent-2-enoic acid
- CAS Number: 16957-70-3
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C6H10O2
- Molecular Weight: 114.14 g/mol
(E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is characterized by its unsaturated carboxylic acid functional group. The presence of the double bond in the (E)-configuration contributes to its distinct odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is known for its pungent, sour odor with a hint of fruitiness. It is often described as having a sharp, penetrating character that can be perceived at low concentrations. The compound's sensory role is typically as an impact note, providing a distinctive edge to formulations. Specific odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but its intensity suggests it is effective at low ppm levels.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
This compound is not widely reported as occurring naturally in significant quantities. It may form as a byproduct in certain fermentation processes or through the degradation of larger organic molecules. Its presence in natural products is limited, affecting its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance."
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
(E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is used in flavor formulations to impart a sharp, tangy note. It is particularly useful in fruit and citrus flavor profiles, where it enhances the overall realism and complexity. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity. The compound is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, (E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is used to add a fresh, tangy note to compositions. It is often found in citrus and fruity fragrance families, contributing as a top note due to its volatility. Typical concentrations in fragrance products are low, often less than 0.5%, to prevent overpowering other components.
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 guidelines.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
- Latin America: No specific data; adherence to regional guidelines is recommended.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values reported; use should be guided by general safety assessments.
- Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use in fragrances.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications may differ, with fragrance use requiring more stringent dermal and inhalation safety assessments.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is valued for its ability to impart a sharp, tangy note that enhances the freshness of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with citrus and fruity components but can be overpowering if used excessively. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for degradation under extreme conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on (E)-2-methyl-2-pentenoic acid is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices often rely on general safety guidelines due to these gaps.
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 2026-08-19 06:13:40 GMT (p2)
