What is 2-trans-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl 2-ethylbutanoate?
2-trans-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl 2-ethylbutanoate (CAS Number: 73019-14-4) is a synthetic flavoring agent belonging to the class of organic esters. It is composed of a dimethyloctenyl alcohol component coupled with 2-ethylbutanoic acid through ester linkage. This compound is designed to replicate or enhance natural fruity and floral flavor notes commonly found in fruits and botanical sources.
Common Uses
This additive is employed in the flavoring industry as a functional ingredient in various food and beverage applications. Common uses include:
- Non-alcoholic beverages, including soft drinks and flavored waters
- Confectionery products such as candies and chewing gums
- Dairy-based products including flavored milk and yogurt
- Baked goods and desserts
- Processed snacks and ready-to-eat foods
As a flavoring agent, it is typically used in very small quantities—measured in parts per million—to achieve the desired taste profile without dominating the product's flavor.
Safety Assessment
The safety profile of 2-trans-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl 2-ethylbutanoate is characterized by limited but notable data points. The FDA has received zero adverse event reports associated with this compound, and there have been no product recalls linked to its use. This absence of reported safety incidents provides a baseline level of reassurance regarding its use in food products.
However, it is important to note that this compound has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation. GRAS status represents a formal recognition that an ingredient is safe for its intended use in foods, based on either extensive historical use or scientific evidence. The lack of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects that the manufacturer or industry has not pursued this formal designation or that the FDA has not evaluated sufficient data to grant it.
The absence of reported adverse events and recalls, combined with the limited quantity in which flavoring agents are used, suggests minimal toxicological concerns at current levels of food exposure. Flavoring compounds are typically evaluated for safety based on the predicted daily intake and established safety margins.
Regulatory Status
The regulatory status of 2-trans-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl 2-ethylbutanoate varies internationally. In the United States, while not GRAS-listed, the compound appears in FDA flavor ingredient databases and may be used under the framework of food additive regulations if properly substantiated.
EU regulations and international food standards bodies may have different classifications and approval statuses. Manufacturers using this ingredient must ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements of each country or region where their products are sold.
Key Studies
Published scientific literature specifically focused on 2-trans-3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienyl 2-ethylbutanoate is limited. Research on synthetic flavoring compounds generally emphasizes:
- Metabolic fate and biotransformation in mammals
- Acute and subchronic toxicity testing protocols
- Structure-activity relationship analysis for ester-based flavorings
The broader category of esters used in flavoring has been extensively studied, with most demonstrating low toxicity when used at concentrations typical in food applications. Regulatory agencies base safety assessments on these precedent studies and the chemical structure's similarity to GRAS-designated compounds.