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. 02.002
• Molecular Formula: C4H8O
• Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Isobutyraldehyde is an aliphatic aldehyde characterized by a branched structure. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its pungent, fruity odor, which is significant 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, apple-like scent, which can be quite intense and diffusive. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh, aldehydic character that can enhance the overall sensory profile of a product. Odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but its potent nature suggests it is effective at low concentrations.

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 during food processing. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" in certain regulatory contexts, depending on its method of extraction and use.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isobutyraldehyde is utilized in flavor formulations for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity note. It is commonly used in fruit flavors, particularly apple and citrus, as well as in nutty and buttery profiles. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages 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 the fragrance industry, isobutyraldehyde is employed in various fragrance families, including fruity, green, and aldehydic compositions. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations are low, often less than 0.5%, due to its high volatility and strong odor profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted under MERCOSUR regulations, though specific national guidelines should be consulted.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Isobutyraldehyde is considered safe for use in food flavors at low concentrations, with a high margin of safety.
• Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, it may cause irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for safe use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Due to its volatility, occupational exposure limits should be observed to prevent respiratory irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isobutyraldehyde is valued for its ability to enhance freshness and realism in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and fruity esters. Formulators should be cautious of its strong odor, which can dominate blends if overused. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on isobutyraldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification.

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 2026-03-26 07:36:47 GMT (p2)