FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-butoxyethyl acetate (CAS: 112-07-2)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 2-butoxyethyl acetate
- IUPAC Name: 2-butoxyethyl acetate
- CAS Number: 112-07-2
- FEMA Number: Not applicable
- Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
- Molecular Formula: C8H16O3
- Molecular Weight: 160.21 g/mol
2-butoxyethyl acetate is an ester compound characterized by the presence of an acetate group linked to a butoxyethyl chain. This structure contributes to its solvent properties, which are relevant in both industrial and fragrance applications. The functional groups present in the molecule, particularly the ester linkage, are known to influence its odor profile, often imparting a mild, sweet, and fruity scent.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
2-butoxyethyl acetate is noted for its mild, sweet, and fruity odor, which can be described as reminiscent of green apple or pear. The intensity of its scent is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The diffusion of this compound is relatively low, which means it does not project strongly but can provide a subtle, lingering effect.
Taste and odor thresholds for 2-butoxyethyl acetate are not well-documented in the literature, which suggests that its sensory impact is typically evaluated qualitatively rather than quantitatively. In fragrance formulations, it is often used to enhance the realism of fruity notes or to add a soft, sweet undertone.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
2-butoxyethyl acetate is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities. It is primarily synthesized through chemical processes, typically involving the esterification of 2-butoxyethanol with acetic acid. This synthetic origin means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.
The compound's formation is a straightforward chemical reaction, and it is not associated with natural biosynthetic pathways such as the Maillard reaction or enzymatic degradation. Its use in flavors and fragrances is therefore limited to synthetic applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
2-butoxyethyl acetate is used in flavor formulations to impart a sweet, fruity note, often enhancing apple or pear profiles. It is typically employed in low concentrations due to its moderate intensity and potential for overpowering other flavor components.
Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired flavor profile. These values are industry-typical estimates, as specific documented ranges are not widely available.
The compound is relatively stable under normal flavor formulation conditions, but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat or acidic environments, which could lead to hydrolysis of the ester linkage.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 2-butoxyethyl acetate is used across various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and green compositions. It serves as a modifier or background note, providing a soft, sweet undertone that enhances the overall complexity of the fragrance.
Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are qualitative, with the compound often used in trace amounts to achieve the desired effect. Its volatility is moderate, contributing primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: 2-butoxyethyl acetate is not specifically listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety and labeling regulations.
- European Union: Under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, it is not explicitly listed for flavor use. Its use in fragrances must comply with general safety standards.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the regulatory status aligns with EU standards, with no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: In Japan and China, the compound is regulated under general chemical safety laws, with no specific approvals for flavor use.
- Latin America: In Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, it is subject to general chemical regulations, with no specific flavor or fragrance approvals noted.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: There is limited data on the acceptable daily intake (ADI) or threshold of toxicological concern (TTC) for 2-butoxyethyl acetate in flavor applications. Formulators should ensure minimal exposure by adhering to industry-typical use levels.
- Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, the compound is generally considered safe at low concentrations. However, it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines.
- Inhalation Exposure: Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure should be minimized in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and protective equipment are recommended during handling.
Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with dermal and inhalation routes posing more significant concerns in fragrance use.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
2-butoxyethyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a sweet, fruity note that enhances the realism of apple and pear flavors. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral compounds, providing a soft, sweet undertone that can round out a composition.
Common formulation pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering sweetness, and instability under acidic or high-temperature conditions. It is frequently under-used in formulations seeking a subtle, naturalistic fruitiness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 2-butoxyethyl acetate is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific quantitative data on use levels and toxicological thresholds are less documented, relying on industry-typical practices and estimates.
Known data gaps include detailed regulatory approvals for flavor use and comprehensive toxicological evaluations for all exposure routes.
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 2026-08-13 15:43:21 GMT (p2)
