FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E,E)-ethyl sorbate (CAS: 2396-84-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Ethyl sorbate
- IUPAC Name: Ethyl (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
- CAS Number: 2396-84-1
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
- Molecular Formula: C8H12O2
- Molecular Weight: 140.18 g/mol
(E,E)-ethyl sorbate is characterized by its ester functional group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The conjugated double bonds in its structure contribute to its volatility and sensory characteristics, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(E,E)-ethyl sorbate is known for its fruity and sweet odor, reminiscent of pineapple and other tropical fruits. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with a pleasant, diffusive quality. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh and vibrant character. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but its sensory role is well recognized in enhancing fruitiness in both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(E,E)-ethyl sorbate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through esterification processes involving sorbic acid and ethanol. Its formation is typically associated with synthetic pathways rather than natural biosynthesis, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component. However, it can be used in formulations labeled as "nature-identical."
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, (E,E)-ethyl sorbate is utilized primarily in fruit-flavored products, including beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a functional component to enhance fruitiness and provide a fresh, sweet note. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. Stability is generally good under neutral pH conditions, but it may degrade under acidic or high-temperature conditions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
(E,E)-ethyl sorbate is employed in various fragrance families, particularly those focusing on fruity and tropical themes. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh, uplifting aroma that is both appealing and versatile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
- European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; assumed to be used under general flavoring principles.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific data; assumed to follow general flavor and fragrance safety guidelines.
- Latin America: No explicit approvals; usage should adhere to local safety and regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; general safety practices should be followed.
- Dermal Exposure: Not reported to cause irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types.
- Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.
Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(E,E)-ethyl sorbate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a blend if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact could be beneficial.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (E,E)-ethyl sorbate is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and general usage. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety assessments.
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 12:41:59 GMT (p2)