FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate (CAS: 2497-18-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate
• IUPAC Name: (E)-hex-2-en-1-yl acetate
• CAS Number: 2497-18-9
• FEMA Number: 3171
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.271
• Molecular Formula: C8H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 142.20 g/mol

(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is an ester compound characterized by its acetate functional group, which contributes to its fruity and green odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated hexenyl chain is significant for its odor characteristics, providing a fresh, green note often associated with natural, leafy scents.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is known for its fresh, green, and fruity odor, reminiscent of unripe bananas and green apples. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The compound serves as an impact note, providing a crisp and natural freshness to compositions.

Taste and odor thresholds are not extensively documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits and plants, including apples, bananas, and pears. It is formed through enzymatic processes in plants, often as a result of the acetate esterification of hexenol compounds. This compound is relevant for "natural flavor" designations, as it can be derived from natural sources through physical, enzymatic, or microbiological processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, banana, and pear. It acts as a key impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of fruit profiles. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.5 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and application.

The compound is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is used in a variety of product types, including personal care products, household cleaners, and air fresheners. It contributes to the top and middle notes, providing a fresh, green, and fruity character. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the product type and desired effect.

Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications, where it imparts 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: 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 in certain applications.
• Latin America: Generally accepted under MERCOSUR regulations, with country-specific variations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though formulators should verify specific regional requirements.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established but generally recognized as safe by FEMA. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is also considered safe, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported at typical use levels. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Risk profiles do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, though formulators should consider cumulative exposure from multiple sources.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green, and fruity note, enhancing the authenticity of fruit flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and alcohols, providing a balanced and natural profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an overpowering or artificial character, and instability under extreme conditions. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance overall freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on (E)-2-hexen-1-yl acetate 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 2026-05-06 08:25:30 GMT (p2)