FlavScents AInsights Entry for Acetyl Propionyl (CAS: 600-14-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Acetyl Propionyl
• IUPAC Name: Pentane-2,3-dione
• CAS Number: 600-14-6
• FEMA Number: 2010
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.191
• Molecular Formula: C5H8O2
• Molecular Weight: 100.12 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Acetyl propionyl is a diketone, characterized by two carbonyl groups. This structure contributes to its buttery and creamy odor profile, making it a valuable compound in flavor formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Acetyl propionyl is known for its rich, buttery aroma with creamy and sweet undertones. It is often described as having a strong, diffusive character that can impart a realistic buttery note to flavor compositions. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a distinct buttery flavor that enhances the overall sensory experience. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to be effective even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Acetyl propionyl is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through synthetic pathways. It is often produced via chemical synthesis for use in flavor and fragrance applications. While it does not occur naturally in significant quantities, its synthetic production allows it to be used in "natural flavor" designations when derived from natural precursors.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Acetyl propionyl is widely used in the flavor industry, particularly in dairy, bakery, and confectionery applications. It serves as a key component in butter, cream, and caramel flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more intense buttery profiles. The compound is stable under typical 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, acetyl propionyl is used to impart creamy, buttery notes to various fragrance families, including gourmand and sweet accords. It acts as a modifier, enhancing the richness and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts to 0.5% in the final product, contributing primarily to the top and middle notes due to its moderate volatility.

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. 07.191.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR, with some country-specific regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Acetyl propionyl is considered safe for consumption at typical use levels, with an ADI not specifically established but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS.
• Dermal Exposure: Low risk of irritation or sensitization, but IFRA guidelines should be consulted for fragrance use.
• Inhalation Exposure: Moderate volatility suggests potential occupational exposure considerations, though typical use levels in consumer products pose minimal risk.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Acetyl propionyl is valued for its ability to impart a realistic buttery note, making it a staple in dairy and bakery flavors. It synergizes well with other creamy and sweet compounds, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as overuse can lead to an overpowering flavor. It is often underutilized in non-dairy applications where a subtle buttery note could enhance complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on acetyl propionyl is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in regulatory acceptance across regions exists. No significant data gaps are noted, though ongoing research into its safety and sensory properties continues to refine its applications.

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 2026-04-09 05:16:27 GMT (p2)