FlavScents AInsights Entry: Methional (CAS: 3268-49-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Methional, also known as 3-(methylthio)propanal, is a sulfur-containing aldehyde with the CAS number 3268-49-3. It is recognized by the FEMA number 3232. The molecular formula for methional is C4H8OS, and it has a molecular weight of 104.17 g/mol. Methional's structure includes a thioether group, which is crucial for its characteristic odor profile. The presence of the aldehyde group contributes to its reactivity and sensory impact, making it a significant compound in flavor chemistry.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methional is characterized by its potent, cooked potato-like odor, often described as sulfurous and savory. It is a key impact note in the flavor profiles of cooked vegetables and certain meats. The compound has a low odor threshold, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Methional is typically used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing authenticity and depth to savory profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methional naturally occurs in various foods, including potatoes, tomatoes, and certain cheeses. It is primarily formed through the Maillard reaction, a complex series of chemical reactions between amino acids and reducing sugars during cooking. This reaction is responsible for the development of many flavor compounds, including methional, which contributes to the characteristic aroma of cooked foods. Methional's presence in natural foods supports its designation as a "natural flavor" in regulatory terms.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methional is extensively used in savory flavor formulations, particularly in potato, meat, and vegetable flavors. It acts as an impact note, enhancing the authenticity of cooked food profiles. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. Methional is relatively stable under typical cooking conditions but can degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions, which formulators must consider during product development.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, methional is used sparingly due to its potent odor. It is primarily employed in creating realistic food-related scents or as a trace element to add complexity to fragrance compositions. Methional contributes to the top notes of a fragrance, providing an initial burst of savory aroma that can enhance gourmand or culinary-themed perfumes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, methional is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for flavor use by FEMA. The European Union includes methional in its list of authorized flavoring substances under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns with EU regulations, maintaining methional's approved status. In Asia, methional is accepted in Japan and China for flavor use, though specific regulatory details may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil recognize methional under harmonized flavor regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Methional's safety profile is well-documented for oral exposure, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally considered safe, though IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use limits to prevent irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to methional's low volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methional is valued for its ability to impart a realistic cooked potato aroma, making it indispensable in savory flavor formulations. It synergizes well with other sulfur-containing compounds and Maillard reaction products. Formulators should be cautious of its potent odor, as overuse can lead to an undesirable sulfurous note. Methional is often underutilized in fragrance applications, where its unique profile can add depth to gourmand scents.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methional is robust, with well-established sensory and regulatory information. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary based on formulation goals. Some data gaps exist in regional regulatory specifics, particularly in emerging markets, but these are generally harmonized with international standards.

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 2026-02-05 15:14:37 GMT (p2)