FlavScents AInsights Entry for Isobutyl Acetate (CAS: 110-19-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Isobutyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: 2-Methylpropyl acetate
• CAS Number: 110-19-0
• FEMA Number: 2171
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol

Isobutyl acetate is an ester formed from isobutanol and acetic acid. It is characterized by its fruity odor, often associated with pear or banana, which is attributed to its ester functional group. This compound is widely used in flavor and fragrance formulations due to its pleasant aroma and volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Isobutyl acetate is known for its sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of pear and banana. It is often described as having a medium intensity with good diffusion properties, making it a popular choice for imparting a fresh, fruity note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct and recognizable scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Isobutyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, pears, and bananas. It is formed through enzymatic esterification processes in these fruits. The compound is often used to enhance "natural flavor" designations due to its presence in nature and its ability to mimic the aroma of fresh fruits.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Isobutyl acetate is commonly used in flavor formulations for beverages, candies, and baked goods. It serves as a key component in fruit flavor profiles, particularly pear and banana. Typical use levels in finished products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor applications. The compound is stable under typical food 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, isobutyl acetate is utilized in a variety of product types, including perfumes, air fresheners, and personal care products. It contributes to the top notes of a fragrance, providing a fresh and fruity aroma. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

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. 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in MERCOSUR countries, with some country-specific regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Isobutyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by an adequate margin of safety, with no significant adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where proper ventilation is recommended to minimize risks.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Isobutyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity note to formulations. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall aroma profile. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility, which can lead to rapid evaporation in open systems. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its distinct aroma can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on isobutyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels, although some variability exists in regional regulatory interpretations. No significant data gaps are identified, but ongoing monitoring of regulatory changes is advised.

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 2026-05-22 02:27:51 GMT (p2)