FlavScents AInsights Entry: Amyl Acetate (CAS: 628-63-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Amyl Acetate, Banana Oil
• IUPAC Name: Pentyl ethanoate
• CAS Number: 628-63-7
• FEMA Number: 2055
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.001
• Molecular Formula: C7H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 130.18 g/mol

Amyl acetate is an ester formed from the condensation of acetic acid and amyl alcohol. It is characterized by its fruity odor, reminiscent of bananas, which is attributed to its ester functional group. This compound is widely used in both flavor and fragrance industries due to its pleasant aroma and volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Amyl acetate is known for its distinctive fruity odor, often described as banana-like, with sweet, pear-like nuances. It has a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it a popular choice for imparting a fruity character in formulations. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a strong initial impression that can enhance the perception of freshness and fruitiness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Amyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pears. It is formed through enzymatic processes during the ripening of these fruits. In the context of "natural flavor" designation, amyl acetate can be derived from natural sources or synthesized to mimic its natural counterpart. Its presence in fruits makes it a suitable candidate for natural flavor labeling when sourced appropriately.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Amyl acetate is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and baked goods. It functions as a primary flavoring agent, providing a strong banana or pear note. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. It is generally 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 the fragrance industry, amyl acetate is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand. It acts as a top note, contributing to the initial burst of scent upon application. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the formulation. Its volatility makes it suitable for products requiring a fresh, fruity opening.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.001.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Amyl acetate is widely accepted across major markets, with harmonized assumptions regarding its safety and use levels. However, formulators should verify specific regional requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Amyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance products is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its rapid evaporation and low concentration in air. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns identified.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Amyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a strong, recognizable fruity note, making it a staple in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering or artificial aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on amyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels and safety assessments. However, formulators should remain aware of potential regulatory updates and emerging research that may impact its use.

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

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 02:49:44 GMT (p2)