FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isopropyl Myristate (CAS: 110-27-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Isopropyl myristate
• IUPAC Name: Propan-2-yl tetradecanoate
• CAS Number: 110-27-0
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not applicable, CoE number not applicable, IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C17H34O2
• Molecular Weight: 270.45 g/mol

Isopropyl myristate is an ester formed from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid. It is characterized by its long carbon chain, which contributes to its emollient properties. The ester functional group is crucial for its role in reducing the greasy feel of formulations, making it a valuable ingredient in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isopropyl myristate itself is not typically noted for a distinct odor or flavor profile, as it is primarily used for its textural and solubilizing properties rather than sensory impact. It is often employed as a carrier or diluent in fragrance formulations, where it helps to stabilize and diffuse other aromatic compounds without contributing a noticeable scent of its own.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isopropyl myristate is not naturally occurring and is synthesized through the esterification of isopropyl alcohol with myristic acid. This reaction is typically catalyzed by an acid catalyst under controlled conditions. It does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origin.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isopropyl myristate is not commonly used as a flavoring agent due to its lack of flavor profile. However, it may be used as a solvent or carrier in flavor formulations, particularly where a non-volatile, non-reactive medium is required. Typical use levels are not well-documented in flavor systems, but it is generally used at low concentrations to avoid altering the flavor profile of the final product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Isopropyl myristate is widely used in the fragrance industry as a carrier oil and solvent. It is valued for its ability to enhance the spreadability and absorption of fragrance oils without imparting a greasy feel. It is commonly found in personal care products such as lotions, creams, and perfumes. Typical concentrations range from 1% to 10%, depending on the product type and desired sensory characteristics. It contributes primarily to the base note due to its low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Isopropyl myristate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in cosmetics and personal care products. It is not specifically listed for flavor use by FEMA.
• European Union: It is permitted for use in cosmetics under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. It does not have a specific FL number for flavor use.
• United Kingdom: Regulatory status aligns with the EU post-Brexit, allowing its use in cosmetics.
• Asia: Widely accepted in cosmetic formulations in countries like Japan and China, subject to local regulations.
• Latin America: Generally permitted in cosmetics, with specific regulations varying by country.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not typically relevant due to its primary use in non-ingestible products. No ADI or MSDI established.
• Dermal Exposure: Considered safe for use in cosmetics with low irritation and sensitization potential. IFRA does not restrict its use.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility minimizes inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Overall, isopropyl myristate is considered safe for use in its intended applications, with a favorable safety profile across exposure routes.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isopropyl myristate is prized for its ability to improve the texture and absorption of formulations. It synergizes well with other emollients and can help reduce the greasy feel of oils. Formulators should be cautious of using it in high concentrations in products intended for oily skin, as it may exacerbate oiliness. It is often under-utilized in fragrance formulations where its solubilizing properties can enhance the longevity and diffusion of scent.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on isopropyl myristate is well-established, particularly in the context of its use in cosmetics and fragrances. While its role in flavor systems is less documented, industry practices provide a reliable basis for its use as a carrier. Regulatory information is consistent across major markets, though specific flavor applications remain less defined.

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 (not applicable due to lack of flavor use)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable for isopropyl myristate)

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 2026-08-18 20:52:59 GMT (p2)