FlavScents AInsights Entry for Propyl Acetate (CAS: 109-60-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Propyl acetate, also known as n-propyl acetate, is a chemical compound with the IUPAC name propyl ethanoate. It is identified by the CAS number 109-60-4. The FEMA number for propyl acetate is 2933. Other identifiers include the FL number 09.013 and CoE number 117. The molecular formula of propyl acetate is C5H10O2, and it has a molecular weight of 102.13 g/mol. This compound is an ester, characterized by its functional group -COO-, which is crucial for its fruity odor profile. The ester linkage contributes significantly to its volatility and sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Propyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity odor reminiscent of pears and apples, with moderate intensity and good diffusion. It is often described as having a sweet, ethereal quality. The odor threshold for propyl acetate is relatively low, making it effective as an impact note in formulations. Its typical sensory role includes acting as a modifier or enhancer in both flavor and fragrance compositions, providing a fresh and fruity top note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Propyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples and pears, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can form through enzymatic reactions during the ripening of fruits or through fermentation processes. In the context of natural flavors, propyl acetate is often derived from natural sources to meet "natural flavor" labeling requirements. Its presence in fruits makes it a candidate for natural fragrance designation as well.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, propyl acetate is used across various categories, including fruit, confectionery, and beverage flavors. It serves as a key component in creating realistic fruit profiles, particularly for apple and pear flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 30 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense fruit flavors. Propyl acetate is relatively stable under normal conditions but may hydrolyze under extreme pH or prolonged heat exposure.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Propyl acetate is utilized in fragrance formulations, particularly within fruity and floral fragrance families. It acts as a top note, providing freshness and lift to compositions. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like perfumes, body sprays, and air fresheners, where a quick diffusion is desirable.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, propyl acetate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 09.013. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, propyl acetate is permitted in Japan and China, with specific use conditions. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR recognize its use in flavors and fragrances, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, propyl acetate has a high margin of safety when used within recommended levels in flavors. The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) is not specifically established, but its use is supported by FEMA GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with low irritation potential, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to its volatility and rapid dispersion, but occupational exposure limits should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Propyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity note to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing overall aroma profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility, ensuring it is not lost during processing. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on propyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary based on formulation goals. Some data gaps exist in precise toxicological thresholds, but general safety is supported by extensive use history.

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 2026-03-21 10:04:56 GMT (p2)