FlavScents AInsights Entry: Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate (CAS: 77-83-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Strawberry Aldehyde, Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl 3-methyl-3-phenylglycidate
• CAS Number: 77-83-8
• FEMA Number: 2460
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.037
• Molecular Formula: C12H14O3
• Molecular Weight: 206.24 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is characterized by an epoxide group and an ester linkage, contributing to its sweet, fruity aroma reminiscent of strawberries. The phenyl group enhances its aromatic intensity and diffusion.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is renowned for its sweet, fruity odor, often described as strawberry-like with nuances of honey and floral notes. It is a high-impact aroma compound, used primarily as an impact note in flavor formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Its sensory role is predominantly as a characterizing agent, providing a realistic strawberry note in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is not typically found in nature but is synthesized for use in flavor and fragrance applications. It is produced through chemical synthesis, often involving the reaction of phenylacetaldehyde with ethyl diazoacetate. While it is not naturally occurring, its synthetic nature does not preclude its use in "natural flavor" designations, provided it meets regulatory criteria for such labeling.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as strawberry, raspberry, and other berry profiles. It serves as a key impact note, enhancing the authenticity and intensity of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. The compound is stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is utilized in fruity and floral compositions, contributing to the top and middle notes. It is commonly found in personal care products, including perfumes, lotions, and shampoos. Concentration levels in fragrances vary widely, typically ranging from trace amounts to several percent, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh, sweet aroma that complements other floral and fruity notes.

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 number 09.037.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended limits. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by a favorable safety profile, with no significant adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted to avoid potential sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during manufacturing.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is valued for its potent strawberry aroma, making it a staple in fruit flavor formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral compounds, enhancing overall aroma complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its high impact, as overuse can lead to an artificial or cloying effect. It is often underutilized in non-fruit applications, where it can add a subtle sweetness and depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on Ethyl Methylphenylglycidate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in industry literature. While regulatory approvals are clear, formulators should remain aware of regional variations in permissible use levels. Some industry practices, particularly in fragrance applications, may not be fully documented but are widely accepted.

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 2026-05-12 13:16:05 GMT (p2)