FlavScents AInsights Entry: Linalyl Acetate (CAS: 115-95-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Linalyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: 3,7-Dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-yl acetate
• CAS Number: 115-95-7
• FEMA Number: 2633
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.018
• Molecular Formula: C12H20O2
• Molecular Weight: 196.29 g/mol

Linalyl acetate is an ester formed from linalool and acetic acid. It is characterized by its functional groups, including an ester linkage, which contributes to its pleasant floral and fruity aroma. The structure-odor relationship is significant, as the ester group is known for imparting sweet, fruity notes, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Linalyl acetate is renowned for its fresh, floral, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of bergamot and lavender. It is often described as having a sweet, citrusy, and slightly woody scent. The compound exhibits moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for use as both an impact note and a background modifier in complex formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, its sensory role is primarily as a modifier and enhancer, providing a natural and appealing character to both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Linalyl acetate is naturally found in a variety of essential oils, including those of lavender, bergamot, and clary sage. It is biosynthesized in plants through the acetylation of linalool, a process facilitated by specific enzymes. This compound is significant in the designation of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its widespread occurrence in nature and its extraction from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Linalyl acetate is utilized in a range of flavor categories, including citrus, floral, and herbal profiles. It serves as a functional component in flavor systems, providing a sweet, fruity, and floral note that enhances the overall profile of the product. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 30 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, linalyl acetate is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and chypre. It functions as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in top and middle notes, providing a fresh and uplifting character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

• Flavor Use: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA.
• Fragrance Use: No specific restrictions noted.

European Union

• Flavor Use: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
• Fragrance Use: IFRA standards apply.

United Kingdom

• Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards.

Asia

• Japan: Permitted for use in flavors and fragrances.
• China and ASEAN: Generally recognized, but specific regulations may vary.

Latin America

• Brazil and MERCOSUR: Permitted with adherence to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Linalyl acetate is considered safe for use in food flavors, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by relevant authorities. The compound is metabolized to linalool and acetic acid, both of which are naturally occurring and generally recognized as safe.

Dermal Exposure

In fragrance applications, linalyl acetate is not known to cause significant irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines provide recommendations to ensure safe use in personal care products.

Inhalation Exposure

Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure is possible, particularly in occupational settings. However, it is not associated with significant respiratory risks at typical exposure levels.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Linalyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a natural, fresh, and floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and citrus notes, enhancing the overall complexity and appeal of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial scent. It is frequently under-used in formulations seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on linalyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability exists in regulatory interpretations across regions. Known data gaps are minimal, with most information being robust and reliable.

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 15:29:22 GMT (p2)