FlavScents AInsights Entry for Ethyl Isobutyrate (CAS: 97-62-1)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Ethyl isobutyrate
• IUPAC Name: Ethyl 2-methylpropanoate
• CAS Number: 97-62-1
• FEMA Number: 2458
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Ethyl isobutyrate is an ester, characterized by its fruity odor, which is a result of the ester linkage between the ethyl group and the isobutyric acid moiety. This structure is crucial for its application in flavor and fragrance formulations, imparting a sweet, fruity aroma reminiscent of pineapple and other tropical fruits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Ethyl isobutyrate is known for its sweet, fruity odor with prominent notes of pineapple and a hint of apple. It is often described as having a medium to high intensity with good diffusion properties, making it an effective impact note in both flavor and fragrance applications. The taste threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be used effectively in small concentrations to achieve the desired sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Ethyl isobutyrate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, bananas, and pineapples. It can also be formed through fermentation processes and is a component of the volatile profile of some alcoholic beverages. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" when derived from these origins.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Ethyl isobutyrate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as pineapple, apple, and banana. It serves as an impact note, providing a strong, recognizable fruity character. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense flavor profiles. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though care should be taken to avoid excessive heat which may lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, ethyl isobutyrate is used in fruity and tropical fragrance families. It acts as a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness and sweetness. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like perfumes and body sprays.

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 with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific limits set by local authorities.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Ethyl isobutyrate 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 applications shows low irritation potential, and it is not a known sensitizer. Inhalation exposure is generally safe, though occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent overexposure in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Ethyl isobutyrate is valued for its strong, fruity aroma and versatility in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It blends well with other esters and fruity notes, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent or flavor. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where its impact can be maximized.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on ethyl isobutyrate is well-established, with consistent findings across multiple authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the confidence in the data quality is high, with no significant gaps identified.

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 02:48:35 GMT (p2)