FlavScents AInsights Entry for Propylene Glycol Monobutyrate (CAS: 29592-95-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Propylene Glycol Monobutyrate
• IUPAC Name: 1-(2-Hydroxypropoxy)butane
• CAS Number: 29592-95-8
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C7H14O3
• Molecular Weight: 146.18 g/mol

Propylene glycol monobutyrate is a single chemical compound characterized by the presence of a propylene glycol moiety esterified with butyric acid. The functional groups include a hydroxyl group and an ester linkage, which contribute to its solubility and reactivity in formulations. The structure-odor relevance is primarily influenced by the ester group, which is known to impart fruity and sweet notes in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Propylene glycol monobutyrate is noted for its mild, sweet, and fruity odor profile, reminiscent of butterscotch or caramel. The intensity of its aroma is moderate, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in complex formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, its sensory role is often as an enhancer of sweetness and fruitiness in both flavor and fragrance systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Propylene glycol monobutyrate is not known to occur naturally and is typically synthesized through the esterification of propylene glycol with butyric acid. This synthetic origin means it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks. Its formation does not involve common natural pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, propylene glycol monobutyrate is used across various categories, including confectionery, dairy, and bakery products. It functions primarily as a flavor enhancer, providing depth and complexity to sweet profiles. Typical use levels in finished products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering sweetness. It is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though care should be taken to avoid excessive heat which may lead to degradation.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Propylene glycol monobutyrate is utilized in fragrance formulations, particularly within gourmand and fruity fragrance families. It serves as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the overall sweetness and richness of the scent profile. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to contribute to both the middle and base notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
• Latin America: No specific listings; adherence to MERCOSUR and local regulations is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, specific ADI or MSDI values are not available; however, usage in flavors should be within industry-typical levels to ensure safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally considered low risk, with no significant irritation or sensitization reported. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, though occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Propylene glycol monobutyrate is valued for its ability to enhance sweetness and fruitiness in formulations. It synergizes well with other esters and sweet compounds, though care should be taken to avoid excessive use which can lead to an overly sweet profile. It is often under-utilized in savory applications where a hint of sweetness can add complexity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on propylene glycol monobutyrate is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines.

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 2026-05-21 06:47:05 GMT (p2)