FlavScents AInsights Entry for Prenyl Acetate (CAS: 1191-16-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Prenyl Acetate
• IUPAC Name: 3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl acetate
• CAS Number: 1191-16-8
• FEMA Number: 2965
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.268
• Molecular Formula: C7H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 128.17 g/mol

Prenyl acetate is an ester compound characterized by its acetate functional group, which contributes to its fruity and floral odor profile. The presence of the unsaturated prenyl group is significant for its volatility and sensory impact, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Prenyl acetate is known for its pleasant, fruity aroma reminiscent of pears and apples, with a subtle floral undertone. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it suitable for use as an impact note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Prenyl acetate occurs naturally in various fruits, including apples and pears, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can also be formed through enzymatic reactions during the ripening of fruits. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" and "natural fragrance" designations, depending on the extraction and processing methods employed.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Prenyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit flavors such as apple, pear, and tropical blends. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the authenticity and appeal of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. Prenyl acetate is generally 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, prenyl acetate is utilized in a variety of fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and green compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing freshness and lift to the overall scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top notes of a 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: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.268.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Generally accepted in Japan and China, though specific regulatory details may vary.
• Latin America: Accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions across the region.

Prenyl acetate is widely approved for use in both flavors and fragrances, with no significant regulatory uncertainties reported.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Prenyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical usage levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility and typical usage concentrations.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Prenyl acetate is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, fruity character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other esters and fruity compounds, enhancing the overall profile. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a blend if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can add depth and realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on prenyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented guidelines, though some variability in natural occurrence data may exist due to differences in fruit sources and processing methods.

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 2026-04-13 19:45:45 GMT (p2)