FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Cinnamate (CAS: 103-36-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl cinnamate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl (E)-3-phenylprop-2-enoate
• CAS Number: 103-36-6
• FEMA Number: 2430
• Other Identifiers: FL number 02.013, CoE number 186
• Molecular Formula: C11H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 176.21 g/mol

Ethyl cinnamate is an ester formed from cinnamic acid and ethanol. It features a phenyl group attached to an unsaturated ester, contributing to its characteristic sweet, balsamic odor. The presence of the phenyl group is crucial for its aromatic properties, making it a valuable compound in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl cinnamate is known for its sweet, balsamic, and cinnamon-like aroma, often described as having a fruity undertone. It is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a warm and spicy character. The compound has a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for both top and middle notes in fragrance compositions. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its sensory impact is well recognized in the industry.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl cinnamate occurs naturally in various plants, including cinnamon and balsam of Peru. It can also be formed through the esterification of cinnamic acid with ethanol, a process that can occur naturally in some plant species. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl cinnamate is used in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in cinnamon, balsamic, and fruity profiles. It serves as a key impact note in flavor systems, enhancing the overall warmth and sweetness. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor profiles. It is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, ethyl cinnamate is utilized across several fragrance families, including oriental and spicy compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the warmth and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility allows it to function effectively as a middle note, providing a lasting aromatic presence.

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 FL number 02.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, though specific regulations may vary.

Explicit approvals exist for both flavor and fragrance use, with harmonized assumptions across many regions. However, formulators should verify country-specific regulations to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl cinnamate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications under current exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no specific ADI established, but typical use levels are well below any concerning thresholds. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl cinnamate is valued for its ability to impart a warm, spicy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other cinnamic compounds and can enhance the depth of fruity and balsamic profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its intensity, as overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance the overall profile without dominating.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl cinnamate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some undocumented uses may exist. Known data gaps are minimal, though ongoing research may provide further insights into its sensory and safety profiles.

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

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 12:32:47 GMT (p2)