FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate (CAS: 3681-71-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Leaf acetate, cis-3-Hexenyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate
• CAS Number: 3681-71-8
• FEMA Number: 3855
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.271
• Molecular Formula: C8H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 142.20 g/mol

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is characterized by its ester functional group, which is crucial for its fruity and green odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated bond in the hexenyl chain contributes to its fresh, leafy aroma, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is renowned for its fresh, green, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of freshly cut grass and green apples. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with excellent diffusion properties. This compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a natural and vibrant freshness. Odor thresholds are typically low, enhancing its effectiveness even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound naturally occurs in a variety of plants, including apples, bananas, and green tea. It is biosynthesized in plants through enzymatic reactions involving alcohol acetyltransferases, which convert (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol to its acetate form. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit and green flavor profiles. It acts as a key modifier, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is utilized in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, green, and fruity compositions. It serves as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products typically vary from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the formulation. Its volatility makes it an excellent choice for top note enhancement.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.271.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often underutilized in non-fruit applications, where it can add unexpected freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in natural occurrence data may exist due to differences in plant sources and extraction methods.

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 2026-10-30 20:30:21 GMT (p2)