FlavScents AInsights Entry for Allyl Heptanoate (CAS: 142-19-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Allyl heptanoate
• IUPAC Name: Prop-2-en-1-yl heptanoate
• CAS Number: 142-19-8
• FEMA Number: 2032
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.018
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

Allyl heptanoate is an ester compound characterized by the presence of an allyl group and a heptanoate moiety. The ester functional group is crucial for its fruity odor profile, which is often associated with pineapple and other tropical fruits. The molecular structure contributes to its volatility and diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Allyl heptanoate is renowned for its strong, sweet, and fruity aroma reminiscent of pineapple, with nuances of pear and apple. It is often described as having a high intensity and excellent diffusion, making it an impactful top note in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations, which enhances its utility as a characterizing agent in flavor systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Allyl heptanoate is naturally found in various fruits, including pineapples and apples, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through esterification processes involving allyl alcohol and heptanoic acid. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, provided it is derived from natural processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Allyl heptanoate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a primary impact note in pineapple flavors and as a modifier in apple and pear profiles. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, allyl heptanoate is utilized in creating fruity and tropical scent profiles. It is commonly found in personal care products, air fresheners, and household cleaning agents. Its role as a top note provides an initial burst of freshness, with typical concentrations ranging from trace amounts to 0.5% in formulations. Its volatility ensures it contributes primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition.

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. 09.018.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are prevalent, though formulators should verify country-specific guidelines to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, allyl heptanoate is considered safe within established use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but implied through GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization risks. Inhalation exposure is typically low-risk due to its rapid volatilization, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Allyl heptanoate is valued for its potent fruity aroma and versatility in both flavor and fragrance applications. It synergizes well with other esters and aldehydes to enhance fruit profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an artificial or cloying effect. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on allyl heptanoate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily concerning specific toxicological thresholds.

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 23:01:05 GMT (p2)