FlavScents AInsights Entry: Dimethyl Anthranilate (CAS: 85-91-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Dimethyl anthranilate, also known as methyl anthranilate, is a chemical compound with the IUPAC name methyl 2-aminobenzoate. It is identified by the CAS number 85-91-6 and has a FEMA number of 2682. The molecular formula for dimethyl anthranilate is C9H11NO2, and it has a molecular weight of 165.19 g/mol. This compound features an ester functional group, which contributes to its characteristic fruity and floral odor profile. The presence of the amino group in its structure is significant for its odor characteristics, often described as grape-like or reminiscent of Concord grapes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Dimethyl anthranilate is renowned for its distinctive odor, often described as fruity, floral, and grape-like, with a moderate to strong intensity. It is a key impact note in grape flavors and is also used to impart a sweet, fruity character in various flavor applications. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. In sensory applications, it serves as both an impact note and a modifier, enhancing the overall realism and complexity of flavor profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Dimethyl anthranilate occurs naturally in several fruits and flowers, including grapes, oranges, and jasmine. It is also found in certain essential oils. The compound can be formed through the esterification of anthranilic acid with methanol. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" in certain regulatory contexts, depending on its extraction and processing methods.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Dimethyl anthranilate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in grape, berry, and citrus profiles. It functions as an impact note, providing a distinct grape-like aroma that is both recognizable and appealing. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor profiles. The compound is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, dimethyl anthranilate is utilized in floral and fruity compositions, often within the citrus and floral fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and character. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to contribute to both the initial impression and the lingering scent of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, dimethyl anthranilate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is approved for use in flavors, although specific concentration limits may vary. In Latin America, countries such as Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, dimethyl anthranilate is considered safe at typical use levels in food, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, although it may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. The compound is not classified as a sensitizer by IFRA. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety precautions. 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

Dimethyl anthranilate is valued for its ability to impart a natural grape-like aroma, making it indispensable in grape and berry flavor formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial character. It is often under-used in citrus profiles, where it can add depth and realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on dimethyl anthranilate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some variability in use levels and regulatory interpretations may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, with most information readily accessible through established databases and literature.

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 2026-02-04 12:49:13 GMT (p2)