FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E,E)-methyl sorbate (CAS: 689-89-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E,E)-methyl sorbate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
• CAS Number: 689-89-4
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C7H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 126.16 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: (E,E)-methyl sorbate is an ester with conjugated double bonds, contributing to its characteristic fruity and floral odor profile. The ester functional group is crucial for its volatility and sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: (E,E)-methyl sorbate is characterized by a fruity, floral aroma with nuances of apple and pineapple. It is often described as having a sweet, ester-like scent.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported; however, it is known to be effective at low concentrations typical of esters.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in flavor compositions, providing a fresh, fruity top note that enhances the overall profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: (E,E)-methyl sorbate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications.
• Formation Pathways: It is typically produced through esterification processes involving sorbic acid and methanol.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: As a synthesized compound, it may not qualify as a "natural" ingredient unless derived from natural precursors.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: Commonly used in fruit flavors, particularly apple and pineapple, as well as in confectionery and beverage applications.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: Acts as a top note enhancer, providing freshness and complexity.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels range from 1 to 10 ppm in finished products, with typical industry use around 5 ppm.
• Stability Considerations: Generally stable under typical food processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Utilized in floral and fruity fragrance compositions, including personal care products and air fresheners.
• Functional Role: Provides a fresh, fruity top note that enhances the overall fragrance profile.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: Primarily contributes to the top note due to its high volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008): Not specifically listed; usage may be subject to general safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with potential for divergence.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly documented; typically requires individual assessment.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Not specifically listed; usage may be subject to general safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI; typical use levels suggest low risk when used within industry norms.
• Dermal Exposure: No specific IFRA restrictions; generally considered non-irritating at typical use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; no specific occupational hazards reported.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Offers a unique fruity note that is difficult to replicate with other esters.
• Typical Synergies: Works well with other fruity esters and aldehydes to enhance freshness.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Basic chemical and sensory properties are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and applications are often based on industry experience rather than formal studies.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are limited.

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 2026-03-12 12:47:43 GMT (p2)