FlavScents AInsights Entry: Isoamyl Acetate (CAS: 123-92-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Isoamyl acetate, commonly known as banana oil, is a chemical compound with the IUPAC name 3-methylbutyl acetate. It is identified by the CAS number 123-92-2 and has a FEMA number of 2055. Other identifiers include the FL number 09.001 and CoE number 02.013. The molecular formula of isoamyl acetate is C7H14O2, and it has a molecular weight of 130.18 g/mol. This ester is characterized by its acetate functional group, which contributes to its fruity odor profile, reminiscent of bananas and pears.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isoamyl acetate is renowned for its strong, sweet, and fruity odor, often described as banana-like with hints of pear. It is a high-impact aroma compound with a low odor threshold, making it effective even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, providing a distinct banana character. Its diffusion is moderate, allowing it to blend well with other fruity and sweet notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isoamyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including bananas, apples, and pears. It is formed through enzymatic esterification processes in fruits and can also be produced via fermentation. This compound is often used to enhance "natural flavor" profiles in food products due to its presence in nature.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isoamyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and baked goods. It functions as a primary flavoring agent, imparting a banana-like taste. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 30 ppm, with higher concentrations used in confectionery. It is 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, isoamyl acetate is utilized in fruity and floral compositions, contributing to the top notes of perfumes and personal care products. It acts as an impact note, providing freshness and realism. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 1% in formulations, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility makes it suitable for top note applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

Isoamyl acetate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FEMA for flavor use in the United States. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with the FL number 09.001. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, it is approved for use in Japan and China, while in Latin America, it is accepted under MERCOSUR regulations. There are no significant regulatory uncertainties reported.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Isoamyl acetate is considered safe for oral exposure at typical flavor use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specified due to its low toxicity. For dermal exposure, it is not a known irritant or sensitizer, aligning with IFRA guidelines for fragrance use. Inhalation exposure is generally safe, but occupational settings should ensure adequate ventilation due to its volatility. Risk profiles do not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isoamyl acetate is valued for its potent banana aroma, making it a staple in fruit-flavored and scented products. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds. Formulators should be cautious of its strong odor, which can dominate blends if overused. 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 isoamyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some formulation nuances may rely on expert judgment. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted.

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 2026-06-17 13:04:58 GMT (p2)