FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isobutyraldehyde (CAS: 78-84-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Isobutyraldehyde
• IUPAC Name: 2-Methylpropanal
• CAS Number: 78-84-2
• FEMA Number: 2173
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.001
• Molecular Formula: C4H8O
• Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol

Isobutyraldehyde is an aliphatic aldehyde characterized by a branched structure. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is often described as pungent and fruity. This functional group is crucial for its reactivity and sensory attributes, making it a valuable compound in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isobutyraldehyde is known for its sharp, pungent odor with fruity and nutty undertones. It is often described as having a green, fresh character that can be quite intense. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective as an impact note in formulations. Its sensory role typically involves providing a fresh, fruity top note that can enhance the realism and complexity of flavor and fragrance compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isobutyraldehyde occurs naturally in various fruits and fermented products. It can be formed through the oxidative degradation of isobutanol or via the Maillard reaction, which involves amino acids and reducing sugars. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" under certain regulatory frameworks, provided it is derived from natural processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isobutyraldehyde is utilized in a variety of flavor categories, including fruit, nut, and dairy flavors. It serves as an impact note, providing a fresh, fruity character that enhances the overall profile of the flavor system. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering notes. It is relatively stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or oxidative environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, isobutyraldehyde is used across several fragrance families, including fruity, green, and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the top notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, providing an initial burst of freshness.

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 02.001.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, isobutyraldehyde is considered safe within the established FEMA GRAS limits, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically defined but implied through GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though it may cause irritation at high concentrations. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk in consumer products, but occupational settings should ensure adequate ventilation to minimize exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isobutyraldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and esters, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an overpowering or harsh note. It is frequently under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact can be subtly integrated.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on isobutyraldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, with most information supported by authoritative sources.

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 2026-02-13 08:37:53 GMT (p2)