FlavScents AInsights Entry for Allyl Heptanoate (CAS: 142-19-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Allyl heptanoate
• IUPAC Name: Prop-2-en-1-yl heptanoate
• CAS Number: 142-19-8
• FEMA Number: 2030
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C10H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 170.25 g/mol

Allyl heptanoate is an ester compound characterized by the presence of an allyl group and a heptanoate moiety. The ester functional group is crucial for its fruity odor profile, which is often associated with pineapple and other tropical fruits. The molecular structure contributes to its volatility and diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Allyl heptanoate is renowned for its strong, sweet, and fruity aroma reminiscent of pineapple, with nuances of pear and apple. It is often described as having a high intensity and excellent diffusion, making it an impactful top note in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be perceived at minimal concentrations, which enhances its utility as an impact note in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Allyl heptanoate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples and pineapples, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through esterification processes involving allyl alcohol and heptanoic acid. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the extraction and processing methods used.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Allyl heptanoate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as pineapple, apple, and pear. It serves as an impact note, providing a burst of fruity aroma that enhances the overall profile of the flavor system. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with variations depending on the desired intensity and the matrix of the product. It is generally stable under typical 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, allyl heptanoate is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand compositions. It acts as a top note, providing initial impact and freshness. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in perfumes, body sprays, and other personal care products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, but formulators should verify country-specific regulations due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, allyl heptanoate is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI levels, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally low risk, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility at typical use levels, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Allyl heptanoate is valued for its potent fruity aroma and versatility in both flavor and fragrance applications. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity notes, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an overpowering aroma, and instability under extreme conditions. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its impact can be maximized.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on allyl heptanoate 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 regional regulatory updates.

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 2026-09-18 12:39:16 GMT (p2)