FlavScents AInsights Entry for 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. Its structure consists of a propyl group attached to an acetate group, which contributes to its characteristic fruity odor. The ester functional group is crucial for its volatility and odor profile, making it a valuable compound in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Propyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity odor reminiscent of pears and apples. It is often described as having a sweet, ethereal, and slightly alcoholic scent. The compound is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh and uplifting character. Its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations, making it effective in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Propyl acetate naturally occurs in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pears. It is formed through enzymatic reactions during the ripening process, contributing to the characteristic aroma of these fruits. In the context of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations, propyl acetate can be derived from natural sources or synthesized to mimic its natural occurrence.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Propyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, pear, and banana. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the authenticity and freshness of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 30 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor applications. It is 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 an initial burst of freshness and sweetness. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in 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: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific regulations in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with some regional variations.

Propyl acetate is widely accepted for both flavor and fragrance applications, with harmonized regulations across major markets. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Propyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. 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 monitored in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Propyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for rapid evaporation, which can lead to under-utilization in some applications. It is often overused in attempts to achieve a strong initial impact, which can overwhelm other notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on propyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. No significant data gaps or ambiguities are noted.

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 08:57:27 GMT (p2)