FlavScents AInsights Entry: Amyl Alcohol (CAS: 71-41-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Amyl Alcohol, Pentanol
• IUPAC Name: Pentan-1-ol
• CAS Number: 71-41-0
• FEMA Number: 2059
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.001, CoE No. 20
• Molecular Formula: C5H12O
• Molecular Weight: 88.15 g/mol

Amyl alcohol is a primary alcohol with a straight-chain structure. Its functional group, the hydroxyl group (-OH), is responsible for its characteristic odor and solubility properties. The structure-odor relationship is significant as the alcohol group contributes to its moderate volatility and distinctive aroma, which is often described as fusel-like or reminiscent of fermented fruits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Amyl alcohol is characterized by a strong, pungent odor often described as fusel-like, with fruity and slightly sweet undertones. It is known for its moderate intensity and diffusion, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. The taste threshold is not well-documented, but its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at low concentrations. Typically, it serves as an impact note or a background realism enhancer in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Amyl alcohol naturally occurs in various fermented products, such as beer and wine, where it is formed through the fermentation process. It can also be found in some fruits and is a byproduct of the Maillard reaction. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in "natural flavor" designations, provided it is derived through acceptable processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Amyl alcohol is used across various flavor categories, including alcoholic beverages, baked goods, and confectionery. It functions as a flavor enhancer, providing depth and complexity to flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrances, amyl alcohol is utilized in several fragrance families, including fruity and floral compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the overall scent profile. Typical concentration ranges are from trace amounts up to 0.5%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility places it in the top to middle note category, providing initial impact and contributing to the fragrance's evolution.

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 02.001.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved in Japan and China, with specific use levels varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals exist, but harmonized assumptions may vary, and formulators should verify country-specific regulations.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Amyl alcohol's safety profile varies with exposure routes. Orally, it is considered safe at low concentrations typical in flavor applications, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly reported. Dermal exposure in fragrances may cause irritation or sensitization, necessitating adherence to IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally low risk due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Amyl alcohol is valued for its ability to enhance complexity and realism in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other alcohols and esters, but care must be taken to avoid overpowering effects. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to harsh or unpleasant notes. It is often underutilized in subtle applications where its impact can be significant.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on amyl alcohol is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and regulatory status. However, some gaps exist in specific toxicological thresholds and regional regulatory nuances. Industry practices often fill these gaps with informed estimates.

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 2026-06-02 10:28:27 GMT (p2)