FlavScents AInsights Entry for Musk Propanoate (CAS: 141773-73-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Musk propanoate
• IUPAC Name: Propanoic acid, 3-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-methyl-2-propyl-, methyl ester
• CAS Number: 141773-73-1
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C13H18O4
• Molecular Weight: 238.28 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Musk propanoate contains ester functional groups, which are often associated with fruity and floral odors. The presence of a benzodioxole moiety contributes to its musky scent profile, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: Musk propanoate is characterized by a sweet, musky odor with subtle floral undertones. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not clearly reported; however, musk compounds typically have low odor thresholds, making them effective at low concentrations.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions and can be used to add depth and complexity to flavor profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: Musk propanoate is not known to occur naturally and is typically synthesized for use in industrial applications.
• Formation Pathways: It is synthesized through esterification processes involving propanoic acid derivatives and appropriate alcohols.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: As a synthetic compound, musk propanoate does not qualify for natural flavor or fragrance designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: Musk propanoate is used in a variety of flavor applications, including confectionery, beverages, and dairy products, to impart a musky, sweet note.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a background realism enhancer, providing depth and complexity to flavor profiles.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels are not available; however, industry-typical use levels are estimated to be in the range of 0.1–5 ppm in finished products.
• Stability Considerations: Musk propanoate is generally stable under typical food processing conditions, but it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Musk propanoate is used in a wide range of fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and woody compositions. It is commonly found in perfumes, body sprays, and personal care products.
• Functional Role: It serves as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the musky character of fragrance compositions.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: It is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: Musk propanoate contributes primarily to the base notes of a fragrance due to its low volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL Number Status): Not listed under specific EU regulations for flavoring substances.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly reported; formulators should verify compliance with local regulations.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Specific regulatory information not available; harmonized assumptions may apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values. Musk compounds are generally used at low concentrations, minimizing potential exposure risks.
• Dermal Exposure: No specific data on irritation or sensitization; however, musk compounds are typically evaluated under IFRA guidelines for safe use in fragrances.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility is low, reducing inhalation risks in occupational settings. General safety practices should be followed.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Musk propanoate provides a unique musky note that enhances both flavor and fragrance compositions.
• Typical Synergies: It blends well with floral and fruity notes, enhancing overall complexity.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering musk character; careful balancing is required.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in flavor applications due to its synthetic nature, but valued in niche fragrance markets.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Basic chemical identity and sensory profile are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and regulatory status may vary; formulators should verify with local regulations.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific toxicological data and regulatory approvals are limited.

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 2026-03-24 18:35:44 GMT (p2)