FlavScents AInsights Entry: Methyl Jasmonate (CAS: 39924-52-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl Jasmonate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl (1R,2R)-3-oxo-2-(pent-2-en-1-yl)cyclopentaneacetate
• CAS Number: 39924-52-2
• FEMA Number: 3496
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.821
• Molecular Formula: C13H20O3
• Molecular Weight: 224.3 g/mol

Methyl jasmonate is a methyl ester of jasmonic acid, characterized by a cyclopentanone ring with a pentenyl side chain. Its structure is crucial for its odor profile, contributing to its floral and fruity scent, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl jasmonate is known for its floral, jasmine-like aroma with fruity undertones. It is often described as having a sweet, rich, and intense scent, which makes it a popular choice in perfumery. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable impact even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as a modifier, enhancing the overall profile by adding depth and complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl jasmonate naturally occurs in various plants, including jasmine, tea, and certain fruits. It is biosynthesized from linolenic acid through the octadecanoid pathway, which involves several enzymatic steps leading to the formation of jasmonic acid and its methyl ester. This compound is often associated with the "natural flavor" designation due to its presence in nature and its role in plant defense mechanisms.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl jasmonate is utilized in flavor formulations for its ability to enhance floral and fruity notes. It is commonly used in fruit flavors, such as apple and strawberry, and in floral blends. Typical use levels in food and beverages range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In perfumery, methyl jasmonate is a key component in floral fragrance families, particularly those mimicking jasmine and other white flowers. It acts as an impact note, providing a rich, sweet floral character. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the middle notes, offering moderate volatility.

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 number 09.821.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China for flavor use, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Explicit approvals exist for both flavor and fragrance applications, though specific concentration limits may vary by region.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, methyl jasmonate is considered safe within the typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly established but generally recognized as safe. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, with no significant sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl jasmonate is valued for its ability to impart a natural, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering scent. It is often under-utilized in non-floral applications where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl jasmonate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily related to specific toxicological thresholds.

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 2026-02-05 18:32:04 GMT (p2)