FlavScents AInsights Entry: Butyl Acetate (CAS: 123-86-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Butyl Acetate
• IUPAC Name: Butyl ethanoate
• CAS Number: 123-86-4
• FEMA Number: 2171
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.001
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol

Butyl acetate is an ester formed from the reaction of acetic acid and butanol. It is characterized by its ester functional group, which is crucial for its fruity odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the ester linkage contributes to its volatility and sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Butyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity odor reminiscent of apples or bananas. It is often described as having a sweet, ethereal, and fresh character with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a bright and uplifting aroma. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not universally documented, it is typically used in concentrations that ensure its presence is noticeable without being overpowering.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Butyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pears, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can form through enzymatic processes during fruit ripening or fermentation. Its presence in natural products allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, depending on its source and method of extraction.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Butyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, banana, and pear. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and brightness of fruit profiles. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 10 to 100 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially used in confectionery or beverages. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions but may hydrolyze under extreme pH or prolonged heat exposure.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, butyl acetate is utilized across various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and fresh compositions. It serves as a top note, providing initial brightness and lift. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to several percent, depending on the desired impact and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for applications where a quick, fresh burst is desired.

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 number 09.001.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China, with specific use levels defined by local regulations.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific guidelines in countries like Brazil.

Regulatory frameworks generally support its use in both flavor and fragrance applications, with harmonized assumptions across regions. However, formulators should verify specific country requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, butyl acetate is considered safe within established use levels, with a high margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally low risk, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is typically limited to occupational settings, where adequate ventilation is recommended to mitigate any potential risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Butyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and aldehydes, enhancing the overall brightness and appeal of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an artificial or overpowering aroma. It is often underutilized in complex blends where its subtlety can enhance depth without dominating.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on butyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some variability in use levels and regulatory interpretations may exist. 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
• No complex natural material section required

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 2026-09-28 11:33:00 GMT (p2)