FlavScents AInsights Entry for (E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate (CAS: 3681-82-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): Leaf acetate, (E)-3-hexenyl acetate
- IUPAC Name: (E)-hex-3-en-1-yl acetate
- CAS Number: 3681-82-1
- FEMA Number: 3855
- Other Identifiers: FL number 09.034
- Molecular Formula: C8H14O2
- Molecular Weight: 142.20 g/mol
(E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is an ester compound characterized by its acetate functional group, which contributes to its fruity and green odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated bond in the hexenyl chain is crucial for its characteristic fresh, green aroma, often associated with freshly cut grass.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
(E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is renowned for its fresh, green, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of freshly cut grass and green apples. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties. This compound is typically used as an impact note in flavor and fragrance formulations, providing a natural and fresh character. The odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
(E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is naturally found in a variety of plants, including apples, pears, and green tea. It is formed through enzymatic processes in plants, particularly during the breakdown of fatty acids. This compound is significant in the designation of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its widespread occurrence in nature and its role in the aroma profile of many fruits and vegetables.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, (E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is used to impart a fresh, green, and fruity note, commonly found in fruit flavors such as apple, pear, and melon. It serves as a functional impact note, enhancing the authenticity and freshness of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. It is relatively 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
(E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is utilized in various fragrance families, including green, fruity, and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, providing freshness and naturalness to the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. It is a volatile compound, contributing primarily to the top notes of a fragrance composition.
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 09.034.
- United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
- Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific use levels defined by local regulations.
- Latin America: Generally recognized as safe, with specific approvals in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, (E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is considered safe at typical use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory authorities. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its volatility and rapid dispersion in air, with no significant occupational hazards reported.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
(E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, enhancing the overall freshness and authenticity of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overly sharp or synthetic aroma. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can enhance the overall profile.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on (E)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some variability exists in use levels and applications. 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
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 2026-05-17 17:57:02 GMT (p2)