FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isovaleraldehyde (CAS: 590-86-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Isovaleraldehyde, 3-Methylbutanal
- IUPAC Name: 3-Methylbutanal
- CAS Number: 590-86-3
- FEMA Number: 2693
- Other Identifiers: FL No. 05.015
- Molecular Formula: C5H10O
- Molecular Weight: 86.13 g/mol
Isovaleraldehyde is an aliphatic aldehyde characterized by a branched structure, which contributes to its distinct odor profile. The presence of the aldehyde functional group is crucial for its reactivity and sensory characteristics, often imparting a pungent, fruity aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Isovaleraldehyde is known for its strong, pungent odor with fruity and nutty undertones. It is often described as having a green, apple-like scent with a hint of maltiness. The compound is highly diffusive, making it a potent impact note in formulations. Its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations, which is advantageous in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Isovaleraldehyde occurs naturally in various fruits and essential oils. It is a byproduct of the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that occurs during the cooking of foods, contributing to the complex flavors of cooked meats and baked goods. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Isovaleraldehyde is utilized in a wide range of flavor applications, including fruit, nut, and dairy flavors. It serves as an impact note, providing a realistic and intense fruity character. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. 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 fragrance formulations, isovaleraldehyde is used to impart a fresh, fruity top note. It is commonly found in floral and fruity fragrance families and is used in products such as perfumes, soaps, and detergents. Concentration levels typically range from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the product and desired effect. Its high volatility makes it a prominent top note, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
- European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 05.015.
- United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
- Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.
Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though some variability exists in country-specific regulations.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Isovaleraldehyde is considered safe for use in food at low concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies.
- Dermal Exposure: Generally non-irritating at typical fragrance concentrations, though higher levels may cause sensitization.
- Inhalation Exposure: Due to its volatility, occupational exposure limits should be observed to prevent respiratory irritation.
The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with safety ensured through adherence to established guidelines.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Isovaleraldehyde is valued for its potent fruity aroma, which can enhance the authenticity of fruit and nut flavors. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and esters, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its high volatility and potential for overpowering other notes if used excessively.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
Data on isovaleraldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented. Industry practices are consistent with regulatory guidelines, though some variability in natural occurrence data may exist.
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 2026-01-19 15:53:35 GMT (p2)
