FlavScents AInsights Entry for Methyl 2-Methyl Butyrate (CAS: 868-57-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Methyl 2-methyl butyrate
• IUPAC Name: Methyl 2-methylbutanoate
• CAS Number: 868-57-5
• FEMA Number: 2713
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is an ester characterized by its fruity aroma, which is primarily attributed to its ester functional group. This compound is often used in flavor and fragrance formulations due to its pleasant, apple-like scent. The ester linkage in its structure is crucial for its volatility and odor profile, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance industries.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is known for its sweet, fruity odor reminiscent of apples and pineapples. It is often described as having a moderate to strong intensity with good diffusion properties, making it an effective impact note in formulations. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable aroma even at low concentrations. It is typically used as an impact note or a modifier to enhance the fruity character of a formulation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples, pineapples, and strawberries. It is formed through enzymatic esterification processes in these fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. This compound is often used in "natural flavor" designations due to its presence in natural sources, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as candies, beverages, and desserts. It serves as a key impact note, providing a fresh, fruity aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 50 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and product type. 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, methyl 2-methyl butyrate is used in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand. 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 effect and product type. Its volatility makes it suitable for use in products like perfumes, body sprays, and air fresheners.

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 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in some ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent overexposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Methyl 2-methyl butyrate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity aroma to formulations. It synergizes well with other fruity and floral notes, enhancing the overall complexity of the scent or flavor. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential for degradation under extreme conditions. It is often under-used in complex formulations where its impact could be beneficial.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on methyl 2-methyl butyrate is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though some regional regulatory nuances may require further clarification. Overall, the compound is well-understood and widely used in both flavor and fragrance industries.

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 2026-06-03 10:18:43 GMT (p2)