# 3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 51755-85-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate is a synthetic flavoring compound classified as an ester that imparts fruity, meaty, or savory notes to food products. It is used in small quantities in processed foods, beverages, and flavorings to enhance taste profiles.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## What is 3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate?

3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate (CAS Number: 51755-85-2) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the ester class of flavor compounds. It consists of a hexyl chain with a methylthio (sulfur-containing) substituent at the third carbon position, acetylated at the terminal hydroxyl group. This structure gives the compound distinctive aromatic properties characterized by fruity, meaty, and savory notes that make it valuable in flavor formulation.

The compound is manufactured through chemical synthesis and is not naturally derived, though similar sulfur-containing compounds occur naturally in various foods including meats, cheese, and certain vegetables.

## Common Uses

3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate is employed as a flavoring agent in the food industry to enhance or create specific taste profiles in processed foods and beverages. Its primary applications include:

- Meat and savory food flavorings
- Processed meat products
- Cheese and dairy flavorings
- Savory snacks and seasonings
- Beverage flavoring systems

The compound is used in very small concentrations, typically in parts per million (ppm) ranges, as is standard for most synthetic flavor compounds. Its functionality lies in its ability to contribute complex, realistic flavor notes that enhance product sensory appeal.

## Safety Assessment

3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate has not been formally designated as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, the absence of a GRAS determination does not indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects the current regulatory status and assessment pathway for this particular ingredient.

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported and zero recalls associated with this additive. This absence of reported adverse effects suggests the compound has not raised safety red flags in the food supply.

The safety profile of synthetic flavor compounds is typically established through toxicological studies examining acute and chronic exposure, with particular attention to mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and reproductive effects. Structurally similar sulfur-containing esters have undergone safety evaluation by regulatory bodies including the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

As with all synthetic flavoring agents, 3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate is subject to use limitations based on technical function, meaning it should only be used in quantities necessary to achieve its intended flavoring effect.

## Regulatory Status

3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate is approved for use as a flavoring agent in the United States under FDA regulations, though without formal GRAS status. This means it may be used in food under the general FDA regulatory framework for food additives and flavoring substances.

The compound may be used in various food categories including non-alcoholic beverages, dairy products, confectionery, and processed foods, subject to good manufacturing practices (GMP) and the principle of using the minimum quantity necessary for the desired effect.

Regulatory acceptance varies internationally; the compound may have different approval statuses in the European Union, Japan, and other regions with their own flavor approval processes.

## Key Studies

Comprehensive toxicological data specific to 3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate appears limited in published scientific literature, which is not uncommon for specialized synthetic flavor compounds. Safety evaluations for such compounds are typically conducted by manufacturers and regulatory bodies but may not be extensively published in open-access journals.

The safety assessment framework for structurally related sulfur-containing esters and acetate compounds provides context for understanding the safety profile of this ingredient. These compounds generally demonstrate low acute toxicity and are not associated with significant systemic effects at exposure levels relevant to food use.

Ongoing monitoring through adverse event reporting systems and regulatory surveillance continues to track any potential safety signals associated with this and other flavor additives in the food supply.

## 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. "3-(methylthio)hexyl Acetate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/3-methylthio-hexyl-acetate. Accessed 2026-05-19.