# Acetoin

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/acetoin
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/acetoin.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 513-86-0
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Acetoin (2,3-butanediol) is an organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts a buttery, creamy taste and aroma, commonly appearing in dairy, baked goods, and beverage formulations.

## 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

## Safety Assessment

Acetoin has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, meaning it has not been formally approved through the GRAS notification process. However, it is important to note that the absence of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate the substance is unsafe. As of the latest available data, there are no reported adverse events associated with acetoin in the FDA's adverse event database, and no food recalls have been linked to this ingredient. The compound has been studied for safety considerations, though comprehensive toxicological data remains limited compared to more widely used additives. In the European Union, acetoin is approved as a food flavoring under the applicable flavoring regulations, suggesting regulatory acceptance in certain jurisdictions. The lack of adverse event reports despite its historical use in food products suggests a reasonable safety profile under current usage conditions.

## Regulatory Status

Acetoin's regulatory status varies by jurisdiction. While it does not hold FDA GRAS status in the United States, it is not prohibited and may be used in food products through other regulatory pathways. In the European Union, acetoin is listed as an approved flavoring substance and can be used in accordance with EU Regulation 1334/2008. This regulatory acceptance in major markets indicates that competent food safety authorities have evaluated the substance and determined it acceptable for use under specified conditions. Manufacturers using acetoin must comply with applicable regulations in their respective countries and ensure proper labeling and usage levels.

## Key Studies

Limited published peer-reviewed research specifically addresses acetoin's safety in food applications. The compound has been evaluated as part of broader flavoring ingredient assessments, particularly regarding its organoleptic properties and production methods. Most safety information derives from its long history of use in fermented foods and as a naturally occurring flavor component in dairy products and alcoholic beverages. The absence of reported adverse health effects in populations consuming foods containing acetoin supports its general safety profile at typical food usage levels. Additional mechanistic and toxicological studies would provide more comprehensive safety data, though current evidence does not suggest significant concerns for consumers at normal dietary exposure 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. "Acetoin — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/acetoin. Accessed 2026-05-19.