FlavScents AInsights Entry: Propyl Acetate (CAS: 109-60-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Propyl Acetate
• IUPAC Name: Propyl ethanoate
• CAS Number: 109-60-4
• FEMA Number: 2933
• Other Identifiers: FL number 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C5H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 102.13 g/mol

Propyl acetate is an ester formed from acetic acid and propanol. It is characterized by its ester functional group, which contributes to its fruity odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the ester linkage is responsible for its sweet, pear-like aroma, commonly used in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Propyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity odor reminiscent of pears and apples. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it a popular choice for imparting a fresh, fruity note in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. In sensory applications, it often serves as an impact note, providing a bright, fresh top note that enhances the overall profile of a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Propyl acetate naturally occurs in various fruits, including apples and pears, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through enzymatic reactions during the ripening of fruits or through fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks, depending on the extraction and production methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Propyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and baked goods. It functions as a key impact note, providing a fresh, fruity character that enhances the authenticity of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product matrix. It is generally 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 the fragrance industry, propyl acetate is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and fresh compositions. It acts as a top note, providing a crisp, fresh opening that enhances the overall fragrance profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like perfumes, body sprays, and air fresheners.

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 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in countries like Brazil.

Propyl acetate is widely approved for use in both flavors and fragrances, with harmonized regulations across many regions. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Propyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended limits. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no specific ADI established, but typical use levels are well below any concerning thresholds. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with appropriate ventilation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Propyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity note that enhances the realism of fruit flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, but care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an artificial or overpowering aroma. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can provide depth and balance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on propyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are generally consistent, some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. No significant data gaps are noted, but ongoing research may provide additional insights into its applications and safety.

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

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 2026-09-01 10:23:19 GMT (p2)