FlavScents AInsights Entry for S-prenyl thioacetate (CAS: 33049-93-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): S-prenyl thioacetate
• IUPAC Name: S-(3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl) ethanethioate
• CAS Number: 33049-93-3
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C7H12OS
• Molecular Weight: 144.24 g/mol

S-prenyl thioacetate is characterized by the presence of a thioacetate group, which contributes to its distinctive sulfurous odor profile. The prenyl group adds a fruity, slightly floral note, making it relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

S-prenyl thioacetate is known for its complex sensory profile, combining sulfurous, fruity, and floral notes. It is often described as having a strong, pungent odor with a sweet, fruity undertone reminiscent of tropical fruits. The intensity of its aroma makes it suitable as an impact note in formulations. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its potent nature suggests low threshold levels.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

S-prenyl thioacetate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through chemical pathways involving the esterification of thioacetic acid with prenyl alcohol. Its formation is not typically associated with natural processes like the Maillard reaction or fermentation, limiting its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

S-prenyl thioacetate is utilized in flavor formulations to impart a unique sulfurous and fruity character. It is particularly effective in tropical fruit flavors, where it enhances authenticity and complexity. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the matrix of the product. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, S-prenyl thioacetate is valued for its ability to add a distinctive, exotic note to compositions. It is used in trace amounts to provide realism and complexity, particularly in floral and fruity fragrance families. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentrations range from 0.01% to 0.1% in the final product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; consult local regulations for specific applications.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited data available; consult national regulations in Japan, China, and ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Regulatory status not clearly defined; consult local authorities in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for ADI or MSDI; use should be guided by industry best practices and safety assessments.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.

Risk profiles may vary between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use potentially posing higher dermal exposure risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

S-prenyl thioacetate is valued for its ability to impart a unique sulfurous and fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing complexity and authenticity. Formulators should be cautious of its potent nature, as overuse can lead to overpowering and undesirable sensory profiles. It is often under-utilized due to its strong odor, but when used judiciously, it can significantly enhance product appeal.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on S-prenyl thioacetate is relatively limited, with much of the information derived from industry practices and expert insights. Regulatory and toxicological data are sparse, necessitating careful consideration and consultation with authoritative sources when using this compound.

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 2026-11-10 19:16:50 GMT (p2)