AInsights Entry for Rum Ether (CAS: 8030-89-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Rum Ether
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl butyrate
• CAS Number: 8030-89-5
• FEMA Number: 2427
• Other Identifiers: FL number 02.005, CoE number 02.005
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol

Rum ether, known chemically as ethyl butyrate, is an ester formed from butyric acid and ethanol. It is characterized by its fruity odor, reminiscent of pineapple and rum, which is attributed to its ester functional group. This compound is widely used in flavor and fragrance formulations due to its pleasant aroma and flavor-enhancing properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Rum ether is renowned for its strong, fruity aroma, often described as pineapple-like with a hint of rum. It is a high-intensity compound with excellent diffusion properties, making it a popular choice for imparting a tropical note in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold of ethyl butyrate is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a burst of fruitiness that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl butyrate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pineapples, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It is also formed during the fermentation process, which is why it is commonly found in alcoholic beverages like rum. The compound's presence in natural sources allows it to be classified under "natural flavor" designations, making it a versatile ingredient in both natural and synthetic formulations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Rum ether is extensively used in the flavor industry, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and desserts. It is valued for its ability to enhance fruitiness and provide a realistic tropical note. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is stable under various conditions, including heat and acidic environments, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, rum ether is utilized for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity aroma. It is commonly found in fragrance families such as fruity, tropical, and gourmand. Its role can vary from being a trace realism enhancer to a prominent impact note, depending on the formulation. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, contributing primarily to the top notes due to its high volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

• FDA/FEMA GRAS: Approved for use as a flavoring agent.

European Union

• Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008: Listed as a permitted flavoring substance with FL number 02.005.

United Kingdom

• Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards, maintaining its approved status.

Asia

• Japan: Approved for use in food flavors.
• China and ASEAN: Generally recognized as safe, but specific regulations may vary.

Latin America

• Brazil and MERCOSUR: Approved for use in food and beverages.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Ethyl butyrate is considered safe for consumption at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. The compound is metabolized efficiently in the human body, posing minimal risk when used as a flavoring agent.

Dermal Exposure

In fragrance applications, ethyl butyrate is not known to cause irritation or sensitization at typical use concentrations. It is included in IFRA standards, which guide safe usage levels in personal care products.

Inhalation Exposure

Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is possible, particularly in occupational settings. However, it is generally regarded as safe when used in controlled environments.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Rum ether is a valuable ingredient for its ability to enhance fruitiness and provide a tropical character. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, creating complex and appealing flavor profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma. It is often under-utilized in savory applications, where it can add an unexpected twist.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl butyrate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Overall, the compound's safety and efficacy are supported by robust scientific evidence.

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 2026-01-29 16:31:56 GMT (p2)