FlavScents AInsights Entry: Tangerine Acetate (CAS: 91482-37-0)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Tangerine acetate
- IUPAC Name: Not applicable (as it is a complex natural material)
- CAS Number: 91482-37-0
- FEMA Number: Data not found
- Other Identifiers: Data not found
- Molecular Formula and Molecular Weight: Not applicable (complex natural material)
- Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Tangerine acetate is a complex natural material, typically derived from the peel of tangerines. It is not a single compound but a mixture of various esters, primarily contributing to its characteristic fruity and citrusy aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Tangerine acetate is known for its vibrant, sweet, and citrusy aroma, reminiscent of fresh tangerines. It is often described as having a bright, juicy, and slightly tangy scent with a moderate to high intensity. The diffusion of its aroma is quite effective, making it a popular choice for imparting a fresh and uplifting note in both flavors and fragrances. The taste threshold is not clearly reported, but its sensory role is typically as an impact note, providing a burst of citrus freshness.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Tangerine acetate is naturally found in the peel of tangerines and other citrus fruits. It is formed through the enzymatic processes that occur during the ripening of the fruit. This material is often used in products labeled as "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its derivation from natural sources.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
Tangerine acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in citrus-flavored beverages, candies, and desserts. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and brightness of citrus profiles. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense citrus applications. It is generally stable under acidic conditions but may degrade under high heat or prolonged exposure to air.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, tangerine acetate is utilized in a variety of fragrance families, including citrus, fruity, and floral compositions. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and realism. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it an excellent choice for top note applications, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
- United States: Tangerine acetate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. Specific regulatory details for fragrance use are less defined.
- European Union: It is permitted under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use. Fragrance use follows general safety guidelines.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit, the UK aligns closely with EU regulations for flavor use.
- Asia: Regulatory status varies; Japan and China have specific guidelines for citrus-derived compounds.
- Latin America: Brazil and MERCOSUR countries generally follow international standards but may have specific local requirements.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
- Oral Exposure: Tangerine acetate is considered safe for oral consumption at typical flavor use levels. No specific ADI or MSDI is reported, but it is generally regarded as safe within industry-typical concentrations.
- Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, it is not known to cause irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific product types.
- Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and handling practices are recommended.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Tangerine acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, authentic citrus note. It synergizes well with other citrus and fruity compounds, enhancing overall brightness and appeal. Formulators should be cautious of overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex blends where its impact can be subtly integrated.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on tangerine acetate is well-established for its sensory and functional roles in flavors and fragrances. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data may be less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and guidelines.
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)
This entry has been reviewed for completeness and accuracy according to the guidelines provided.
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 2026-06-09 12:50:10 GMT (p2)