FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Laurate (CAS: 106-33-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl laurate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl dodecanoate
• CAS Number: 106-33-2
• FEMA Number: 2443
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.014
• Molecular Formula: C14H28O2
• Molecular Weight: 228.37 g/mol

Ethyl laurate is an ester formed from lauric acid and ethanol. It is characterized by its long carbon chain, which contributes to its low volatility and mild odor profile. The ester functional group is crucial for its odor characteristics, providing a fruity and waxy scent that is often used in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl laurate is known for its mild, fruity, and waxy odor, reminiscent of coconut and other tropical fruits. Its sensory profile is subtle, making it an excellent background note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound has a relatively high odor threshold, meaning it requires higher concentrations to be perceptible compared to more potent aroma chemicals. It is typically used to impart a creamy, smooth character to formulations, enhancing the overall sensory experience without dominating it.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl laurate occurs naturally in various plant oils, particularly coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It is formed through the esterification of lauric acid, a common fatty acid found in these oils, with ethanol. This natural occurrence allows ethyl laurate to be classified as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks, provided it is derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl laurate is used in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in tropical and creamy profiles such as coconut, pineapple, and other exotic fruit flavors. It acts as a flavor modifier, providing a smooth, creamy background that enhances the richness of the primary flavor notes. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems. Ethyl laurate is stable under typical food processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, but may oxidize over time if not properly stored.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, ethyl laurate is valued for its ability to impart a creamy, waxy note that enhances the richness and depth of floral and fruity compositions. It is commonly used in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, where it contributes to a luxurious, smooth texture. Ethyl laurate is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations, depending on the desired effect. Its low volatility makes it a suitable base note, providing lasting power to the fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Ethyl laurate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food by FEMA. It is approved for use in flavors and fragrances.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, ethyl laurate is approved for use in food flavorings.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK aligns with EU regulations, allowing the use of ethyl laurate in flavors and fragrances.
• Asia: In Japan and China, ethyl laurate is permitted for use in food and cosmetic products, subject to specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Ethyl laurate is approved for use in MERCOSUR countries, including Brazil, under regional flavor and fragrance regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl laurate is considered safe for use in both food and fragrance applications. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure studies indicate low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines for fragrance use. Inhalation exposure is not a significant concern due to its low volatility. Overall, ethyl laurate presents a low risk profile across all exposure routes.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl laurate is prized for its ability to enhance the creamy, smooth characteristics of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fatty acid derivatives, providing a cohesive background that supports more volatile top notes. Formulators should be mindful of its high odor threshold, ensuring sufficient concentration to achieve the desired sensory impact. Overuse can lead to a waxy, heavy profile, so balance is key.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl laurate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources such as FEMA and EFSA. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels and safety assessments. However, specific sensory thresholds and regional regulatory nuances may require further verification for precise formulation needs.

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 12:36:48 GMT (p2)