FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate (CAS: 77-83-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate, Strawberry Aldehyde
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl 3-methyl-3-phenylglycidate
• CAS Number: 77-83-8
• FEMA Number: 2464
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
• Molecular Formula: C12H14O3
• Molecular Weight: 206.24 g/mol

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is characterized by its glycidate ester functional group, which contributes to its sweet, fruity aroma reminiscent of strawberries. The presence of the phenyl group enhances its aromatic profile, making it a popular choice in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is renowned for its sweet, fruity odor with strong strawberry notes. It is often described as having a candy-like, floral character with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor compositions, providing a realistic strawberry aroma. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely reported, it is known for its potent sensory impact even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through the esterification of phenylacetic acid derivatives. It is primarily used in artificial flavoring and fragrance applications, where it contributes to the "natural flavor" designation when derived from natural precursors. Its formation does not typically involve natural biosynthetic pathways like the Maillard reaction or fermentation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as strawberry, raspberry, and other berry profiles. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and sweetness of the flavor. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is utilized in fruity and floral compositions, often within the fruity-floral fragrance family. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing a sweet, strawberry-like aroma. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

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 No. 09.037.
• 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 in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals exist for flavor use, with harmonized assumptions across regions. However, specific country regulations may vary, necessitating verification for compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a favorable margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally low risk, with minimal reports of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is not typically a concern due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings. Risk profiles are consistent across food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is valued for its ability to impart a realistic strawberry aroma, making it a staple in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral compounds, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an artificial or cloying effect. It is often underutilized in non-fruity applications where a subtle sweet note could be beneficial.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily related to specific sensory thresholds.

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 2026-01-23 08:34:43 GMT (p2)