FlavScents AInsights Entry for Acrolein Dimethyl Acetal (CAS: 6044-68-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Acrolein dimethyl acetal
• IUPAC Name: 1,1-dimethoxyprop-2-ene
• CAS Number: 6044-68-4
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C5H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 102.13 g/mol

Acrolein dimethyl acetal is a chemical compound characterized by the presence of acetal functional groups. Its structure contributes to its odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications. The acetal group is known for its stability in neutral and basic conditions but can hydrolyze under acidic conditions, which is an important consideration in formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acrolein dimethyl acetal is known for its distinctive odor profile, which can be described as sweet, fruity, and slightly pungent. It is often used as an impact note in formulations due to its strong diffusion and intensity. The compound does not have a well-documented taste threshold, but its odor threshold is considered to be low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.

In sensory applications, acrolein dimethyl acetal serves as a modifier, enhancing the overall complexity and realism of the fragrance or flavor profile. Its ability to blend well with other compounds makes it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acrolein dimethyl acetal is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for industrial use. It is typically produced through the reaction of acrolein with methanol under acidic conditions, forming the acetal linkage. This synthetic pathway is crucial for its availability in commercial applications.

Due to its synthetic origin, acrolein dimethyl acetal does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations. However, its role in enhancing synthetic formulations is well-recognized in the industry.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Acrolein dimethyl acetal is utilized in various flavor categories, including fruity and sweet profiles. It acts as a functional component that imparts a fresh and vibrant note to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application.

The compound is stable under neutral and basic conditions but may degrade under acidic conditions, which should be considered during formulation. Its ability to enhance and modify flavor profiles makes it a valuable tool for flavorists seeking to create complex and appealing products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, acrolein dimethyl acetal is used across various fragrance families, including floral and fruity compositions. It serves as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect and product type.

The compound's volatility allows it to contribute significantly to the initial impression of a fragrance, making it a popular choice for perfumers aiming to create fresh and dynamic scents.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Acrolein dimethyl acetal is not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS but is used in compliance with general safety guidelines.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited specific regulatory information; usage should align with general safety practices.
• Latin America: No specific regulations identified; general safety compliance is advised.

The regulatory landscape for acrolein dimethyl acetal is characterized by harmonized assumptions rather than explicit approvals, necessitating careful consideration of safety and compliance in different regions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Acrolein dimethyl acetal's safety profile is primarily evaluated based on its exposure routes:

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values; formulators should adhere to industry-typical usage levels and conduct safety assessments.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance applications.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be implemented in manufacturing settings.

The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications may differ, with fragrance use requiring more stringent dermal and inhalation safety evaluations.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acrolein dimethyl acetal is valued for its ability to enhance and modify both flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, providing a fresh and vibrant character. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to overpower other components if used excessively, and should consider its stability under different pH conditions.

Common pitfalls include overuse leading to an unbalanced profile and degradation under acidic conditions. It is frequently under-utilized in applications where a subtle yet impactful note is desired.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on acrolein dimethyl acetal is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices often rely on informed estimates and general safety guidelines due to these gaps.

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 2026-06-23 07:37:20 GMT (p2)