FlavScents AInsights Entry: Vanillyl Butyl Ether (CAS: 82654-98-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Vanillyl Butyl Ether
• IUPAC Name: 4-(Butoxymethyl)-2-methoxyphenol
• CAS Number: 82654-98-6
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: Not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C12H18O3
• Molecular Weight: 210.27 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Vanillyl butyl ether is characterized by its ether linkage and methoxyphenol group, contributing to its warm, spicy, and sweet odor profile, reminiscent of vanilla.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Vanillyl butyl ether is known for its warm, sweet, and spicy aroma, closely resembling vanilla. It is often described as having a creamy and balsamic undertone, which makes it a popular choice in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound is typically used as an impact note due to its distinctive vanilla-like scent. While specific odor thresholds are not widely documented, its intensity is considered moderate, providing a lasting effect in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Vanillyl butyl ether does not occur naturally and is synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. It is typically produced through the etherification of vanillin with butanol. This synthetic origin means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Vanillyl butyl ether is utilized in various flavor categories, including bakery, confectionery, and dairy products, where it imparts a rich vanilla note. It serves as a flavor modifier and enhancer, providing depth and warmth to formulations. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and neutral pH levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, vanillyl butyl ether is used across multiple fragrance families, including oriental and gourmand. It acts as a base note, providing a warm, sweet foundation that enhances the longevity of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%. Its low volatility contributes to its role as a base note, offering a lasting scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Vanillyl butyl ether is not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS but is used in flavors under general safety guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage is subject to general safety assessments.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Usage in Japan and China is subject to national food safety standards; specific approvals are not widely documented.
• Latin America: Regulatory status varies; Brazil and MERCOSUR countries may require specific safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values are established; usage in flavors is guided by general safety assessments.
• Dermal Exposure: Generally considered safe for use in personal care products; IFRA standards should be consulted for specific restrictions.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risks; occupational exposure limits are not specifically established.

Overall, vanillyl butyl ether is considered safe for use in both food and fragrance applications when used within recommended guidelines.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Vanillyl butyl ether is valued for its ability to impart a rich, vanilla-like aroma, enhancing both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other sweet and spicy notes, such as cinnamon and clove. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively. It is often underutilized in savory applications, where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on vanillyl butyl ether is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and usage guidelines. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety assessments.

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 2026-04-17 01:57:20 GMT (p2)