FlavScents AInsights Entry: Allyl Propionate (CAS: 2408-20-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Allyl Propionate
• IUPAC Name: Prop-2-en-1-yl propanoate
• CAS Number: 2408-20-0
• FEMA Number: 2030
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.017
• Molecular Formula: C6H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 114.14 g/mol

Allyl propionate is an ester formed from allyl alcohol and propionic acid. Its structure features an allyl group, which contributes to its characteristic fruity odor. The ester linkage is crucial for its volatility and sensory properties, making it a valuable component in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Allyl propionate is known for its sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of pineapple and tropical fruits. It exhibits moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it an effective impact note in both flavors and fragrances. The taste threshold is not well-documented, but its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable character even at low concentrations. It is typically used to enhance fruitiness and add a fresh, juicy quality to formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Allyl propionate is naturally found in certain fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can also be formed through esterification processes in nature, where allyl alcohol reacts with propionic acid. This compound is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" due to its occurrence in nature and its ability to mimic natural fruit aromas.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Allyl propionate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as pineapple, apple, and tropical blends. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh and juicy character. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense fruit profiles. It is relatively stable under typical 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, allyl propionate is used in fruity and floral compositions, often as a top note due to its volatility. It adds a fresh, sweet, and tropical character to perfumes, body sprays, and personal care products. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for top and middle note applications.

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 number 09.017.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals exist in major markets, but formulators should verify compliance with local regulations, especially in Asia and Latin America, where country-specific rules may apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, allyl propionate is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility in ambient conditions, but occupational safety measures should be in place during manufacturing.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Allyl propionate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for degradation under extreme conditions. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its impact can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on allyl propionate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps include precise taste thresholds and long-term exposure studies.

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 2026-04-27 08:46:46 GMT (p2)