FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Linalyl Acetate (CAS: 61931-80-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl linalyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl (2E)-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienoate
• CAS Number: 61931-80-4
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C12H20O2
• Molecular Weight: 196.29 g/mol

Ethyl linalyl acetate is an ester compound characterized by its functional groups, which include an ester linkage and an unsaturated aliphatic chain. These structural features contribute to its fruity and floral odor profile, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl linalyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity, and floral aroma, often described as reminiscent of lavender and bergamot. It exhibits moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable as both an impact note and a background modifier in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is not well-documented, but it is typically used in concentrations that provide a subtle yet noticeable effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl linalyl acetate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through esterification processes involving linalool and acetic acid. Its presence in natural products is typically due to its formation during the processing of essential oils, such as lavender and bergamot oils, where it contributes to the overall fragrance profile. This compound can be used in products labeled as "natural fragrance" when derived from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl linalyl acetate is utilized in various flavor categories, including citrus, floral, and fruity profiles. It serves as a modifier and enhancer, providing depth and complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is relatively stable under normal 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, ethyl linalyl acetate is employed across multiple fragrance families, including floral, citrus, and chypre. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh, uplifting quality to fragrance blends.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Ethyl linalyl acetate is not explicitly listed under FEMA GRAS but is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
• European Union: It is permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for use in flavorings.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards, allowing its use in flavorings.
• Asia: Specific regulations in Japan and China are not well-documented, but it is generally accepted in flavor and fragrance applications.
• Latin America: Regulatory status varies, with Brazil and MERCOSUR countries typically following international guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Ethyl linalyl acetate is considered safe for oral consumption at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established.
• Dermal Exposure: It is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical fragrance concentrations, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types.
• Inhalation Exposure: The compound's volatility necessitates consideration of occupational exposure limits, although it is not classified as hazardous under normal use conditions.

Risk profiles do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, provided usage guidelines are followed.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl linalyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and terpenes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor, and instability in acidic environments. Formulators should consider its volatility and potential for degradation under extreme conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl linalyl acetate is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and general use in flavors and fragrances. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and guidelines.

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 2026-02-07 21:58:26 GMT (p2)