# 6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one, Trans-

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one-trans
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one-trans.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 20859-10-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one is a synthetic flavoring compound used to impart fruity and floral notes in food products. It belongs to the chemical family of ketones and is employed in small quantities to enhance the sensory profile of various processed foods and beverages.

## 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 Trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one?

Trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one (CAS Number: 20859-10-3) is a synthetic organic compound classified as a flavoring agent. It is a volatile ketone with a molecular structure that produces fruity and floral aromatic characteristics. The "trans" designation refers to the geometric configuration of the double bond in its molecular structure. This compound is manufactured through chemical synthesis rather than derived from natural sources, though structurally similar compounds may occur naturally in some fruits.

## Common Uses

Trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one is used as a flavoring adjuvant in the food industry, primarily in:

- Beverages (soft drinks, flavored waters, alcoholic beverages)
- Confectionery products
- Baked goods and desserts
- Dairy products (yogurts, flavored milk)
- Snack foods
- Processed fruit products

Typical usage levels are very low, typically measured in parts per million (ppm), as flavoring agents are potent compounds requiring minimal quantities to achieve desired sensory effects. The compound contributes fruity and slightly floral notes that enhance or modify the overall flavor profile of finished products.

## Safety Assessment

Trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one has not been formally approved by the FDA as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance, meaning it has not completed the standard GRAS notification process. However, it has been used in food applications in various jurisdictions with established safety oversight.

Key safety observations include:

- **FDA Adverse Events**: Zero reported adverse events associated with this additive in FDA databases
- **Recalls**: No FDA recalls specifically attributed to this flavoring agent
- **Toxicological Profile**: As a volatile organic compound used in extremely small concentrations, systemic toxicity concerns are minimal at typical food use levels
- **Organoleptic Safety**: The sensory perception threshold is well below levels that would present safety concerns

The absence of adverse event reports and recalls suggests a favorable safety history in food applications where it has been used. Regulatory acceptance in other regions indicates reasonable confidence in its safety profile at authorized use levels.

## Regulatory Status

The regulatory status of trans-6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one varies by jurisdiction:

- **United States**: Not GRAS-affirmed by FDA, but may be used under FDA's Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list or through food contact substance regulations depending on application
- **European Union**: Listed in the EU Register of Flavouring Substances, indicating it has undergone safety evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and is authorized for use in flavored foods
- **Other Markets**: Permitted in various other countries' food flavoring applications

Manufacturers using this ingredient in products marketed in the United States should ensure compliance with FDA regulations regarding flavoring substances and proper documentation of safety.

## Key Studies

Limited published research specifically addresses this compound in isolation, which is typical for specialized flavoring agents. Safety evaluation data primarily comes from:

- Manufacturer safety dossiers submitted to regulatory agencies
- EFSA scientific opinions on flavoring substances (which may include this compound in broader reviews)
- General toxicological studies on structurally similar ketone compounds
- Historical use data and industry experience

The compound's volatility and low application rates (measured in ppm) mean acute toxicity through food consumption is not a reasonable concern. Chronic effects from trace dietary exposure would be expected to follow predictable patterns based on its chemical class and 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. "6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one, Trans- — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/6-methyl-3-hepten-2-one-trans. Accessed 2026-05-19.