FlavScents AInsights Entry for Geranyl Formate (CAS: 105-86-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Geranyl formate
• IUPAC Name: (E)-3,7-Dimethylocta-2,6-dien-1-yl formate
• CAS Number: 105-86-2
• FEMA Number: 2505
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
• Molecular Formula: C11H18O2
• Molecular Weight: 182.26 g/mol

Geranyl formate is an ester formed from geraniol and formic acid. It features a formate ester functional group, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the ester linkage imparts a fruity and floral scent, making it valuable in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Geranyl formate is characterized by a sweet, fruity, and floral odor reminiscent of rose and geranium. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with good diffusion properties. The compound serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a fresh and uplifting aroma. Odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its sensory role is typically as a modifier or enhancer in both flavor and fragrance systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Geranyl formate is naturally found in various essential oils, including those of rose and geranium. It can also be formed through the esterification of geraniol with formic acid. This compound is relevant to "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations due to its occurrence in nature and its derivation from natural sources.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Geranyl formate is used in flavor formulations for its fruity and floral notes. It is commonly applied in categories such as fruit flavors, particularly citrus and berry, as well as floral flavors. Its functional role includes enhancing the overall aroma profile and adding complexity. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. Stability is generally good, though it may be susceptible to hydrolysis under acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, geranyl formate is utilized across various fragrance families, including floral, fruity, and green compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to impart a fresh initial impression, while its floral character supports the heart of the fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.015.
• 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, though specific regulations may apply.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are prevalent, but formulators should verify country-specific guidelines due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, geranyl formate is considered safe within the typical use levels in food, with no specific ADI established. The compound's low toxicity profile supports its GRAS status. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, 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 in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Geranyl formate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing complexity and depth. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and instability in acidic environments. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a natural profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on geranyl formate is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and regulatory status. Industry practices are documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Known data gaps include precise odor thresholds and comprehensive toxicological profiles.

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 2026-09-18 12:06:23 GMT (p2)