# 2,5-dimethylpyrazine

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 123-32-0
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

2,5-dimethylpyrazine is a naturally occurring organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts a roasted, nutty, and earthy taste characteristic and is commonly found in coffee, chocolate, and grain-based foods.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is 2,5-dimethylpyrazine?

2,5-dimethylpyrazine (CAS Number 123-32-0) is a heterocyclic organic compound belonging to the pyrazine family of chemicals. It exists as a colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid and is characterized by its distinctive roasted, nutty, and earthy aroma. This compound occurs naturally in various foods and is produced through thermal processes such as roasting, baking, and fermentation.

## Common Uses

2,5-dimethylpyrazine is primarily used as a flavoring agent and flavoring adjuvant in the food industry. Its applications include:

- Coffee and coffee-flavored products
- Chocolate and cocoa-based confectionery
- Grain products and cereals
- Savory snack foods
- Processed meats and meat analogs
- Baked goods
- Beverages and flavor formulations

The compound contributes to the characteristic roasted notes that consumers associate with coffee, chocolate, and toasted grain products. It is valued in food manufacturing for enhancing flavor profiles and replicating naturally occurring taste characteristics.

## Safety Assessment

2,5-dimethylpyrazine has been the subject of flavor safety evaluations. The compound is considered acceptable for use as a flavoring agent in many jurisdictions. Scientific literature indicates that pyrazines, including 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, are present in numerous naturally consumed foods at detectable levels.

According to available FDA data, there have been zero adverse event reports associated with 2,5-dimethylpyrazine and zero recalls linked to this additive. This lack of reported safety incidents reflects its established history of safe use in food applications.

Toxicological studies on pyrazine compounds have generally shown low acute toxicity profiles. The compound has been evaluated for genotoxicity, and available evidence suggests it does not present significant genetic toxicity concerns at levels used in food applications.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine is not listed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, it may be approved for use as a flavor ingredient under FDA regulations for food additives, as the regulatory framework allows for approved flavoring agents that do not require GRAS designation. The compound is permitted for use in flavoring applications in multiple countries, including member states of the European Union.

Manufacturers using this additive must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and use it in accordance with applicable food safety regulations, ensuring that levels are limited to those necessary to achieve the desired flavoring effect.

## Key Studies

Research on pyrazines has demonstrated their presence as natural components in foods produced through thermal processing. Studies on flavor pyrazines have established their safety margins and usage levels. The scientific literature supports that 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, when used at appropriate concentrations in food, does not present safety concerns for the general population.

Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) and similar international flavor safety bodies have reviewed pyrazine compounds as part of their ongoing assessment of flavoring ingredients. The cumulative evidence supports the safe use of 2,5-dimethylpyrazine in food flavoring applications at typical use levels.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "2,5-dimethylpyrazine — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/2-5-dimethylpyrazine. Accessed 2026-05-12.