FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Pentanone (CAS: 107-87-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-Pentanone, Methyl propyl ketone
• IUPAC Name: Pentan-2-one
• CAS Number: 107-87-9
• FEMA Number: 2842
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.008
• Molecular Formula: C5H10O
• Molecular Weight: 86.13 g/mol

2-Pentanone is a simple ketone characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) located at the second carbon of a five-carbon chain. This functional group is crucial for its odor profile, contributing to its characteristic fruity and solvent-like scent. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the carbonyl group is known to impart a sharp, penetrating aroma, which is often perceived as pleasant and fruity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-Pentanone is known for its fruity, banana-like odor with solvent-like undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a relatively high diffusion rate, making it noticeable even at low concentrations. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh, fruity character that can enhance the overall sensory profile of a product. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely reported, its potent aroma suggests that it is effective at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

2-Pentanone occurs naturally in various fruits and vegetables, including bananas and tomatoes. It can also be formed through the fermentation process and is a byproduct of the Maillard reaction, which occurs during the cooking of foods. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" under certain regulatory frameworks, provided it is derived from natural processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

2-Pentanone is utilized in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and baked goods. It serves as a functional impact note, enhancing the fruity character of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with industry-typical concentrations often falling between 0.5 and 2 ppm. The compound is relatively stable under normal 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, 2-pentanone is used in various fragrance families, including fruity and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the freshness and realism of the scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Due to its volatility, 2-pentanone is primarily a top note, providing an initial burst of aroma that quickly diffuses.

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. 07.008.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and other MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though formulators should verify specific country requirements due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 2-pentanone is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but implied through GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation is recommended to minimize risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-Pentanone is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity note to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering solvent-like aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance background realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 2-pentanone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric thresholds for sensory perception are less frequently reported. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies specific to inhalation exposure.

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 2026-03-26 07:34:08 GMT (p2)