FlavScents AInsights Entry for Acetyl Propionyl (CAS: 600-14-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Acetyl Propionyl
• IUPAC Name: Pentane-2,3-dione
• CAS Number: 600-14-6
• FEMA Number: 2010
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.191
• Molecular Formula: C5H8O2
• Molecular Weight: 100.12 g/mol

Acetyl propionyl is a diketone characterized by the presence of two carbonyl groups. Its structure contributes to its buttery and creamy odor profile, making it a valuable compound in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acetyl propionyl is known for its rich, buttery aroma with creamy undertones. It is often described as having a sweet, caramel-like scent with moderate intensity and good diffusion. The compound serves as an impact note in flavor systems, enhancing the richness and depth of dairy and caramel profiles.

Taste and odor thresholds for acetyl propionyl are not widely documented, but its sensory impact is significant even at low concentrations, making it a potent modifier in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acetyl propionyl is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through synthetic pathways. It is often produced via chemical synthesis rather than natural extraction, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

The compound is typically synthesized through the reaction of acetyl chloride with propionic acid derivatives, a process that allows for controlled production of this valuable diketone.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Acetyl propionyl is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in dairy, caramel, and buttery profiles. It acts as a key impact note, providing richness and authenticity to these flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor systems.

The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, acetyl propionyl is used to impart creamy, buttery notes, often in gourmand and sweet fragrance families. It serves as a modifier, enhancing the richness and depth of the fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

Acetyl propionyl contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance, offering moderate volatility and a lasting creamy character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Acetyl propionyl is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: It is listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number, indicating its approved use in flavorings.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards, maintaining similar approvals.
• Asia: In Japan and China, acetyl propionyl is permitted for use in flavors, subject to specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR recognize its use in flavors, with harmonized safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Acetyl propionyl's safety profile is well-documented for oral exposure, with an established ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) based on FEMA GRAS assessments. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally considered safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization.

Inhalation exposure is typically low due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be in place to minimize risks during handling and formulation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acetyl propionyl is valued for its ability to impart rich, buttery notes to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other creamy and sweet compounds, enhancing the overall sensory profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect.

Common pitfalls include instability under high heat or acidic conditions, which can lead to degradation and off-notes. It is often under-utilized in fragrance applications, where its creamy character can add depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on acetyl propionyl is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented uses may exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines provided by major regulatory bodies.

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 2026-07-02 07:09:13 GMT (p2)