# Cinnamyl Isovalerate

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 140-27-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Cinnamyl isovalerate is a synthetic flavoring compound that combines cinnamon and fruity aromatic characteristics. It is used in the food industry to enhance flavor profiles in 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 Cinnamyl Isovalerate?

Cinnamyl isovalerate (CAS Number 140-27-2) is a synthetic ester compound created by combining cinnamyl alcohol with isovaleric acid. It belongs to the class of chemical flavoring agents known as esters, which are commonly used to impart fruity, spicy, and aromatic notes to food products. The compound is characterized by a complex flavor profile that blends cinnamon-like spice with subtle fruity undertones, making it useful in formulating complex flavor systems.

## Common Uses

Cinnamyl isovalerate is employed primarily as a flavoring agent in processed foods and beverages. Its applications typically include:

- Confectionery products such as candies, gums, and chocolate items
- Baked goods including cookies, cakes, and pastries
- Beverage formulations where warm spice notes are desired
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milk beverages
- Savory snacks and seasonings where fruity-spice combinations enhance appeal

The compound functions as a flavoring adjuvant, meaning it works in combination with other flavor ingredients to achieve desired sensory outcomes in finished products. Formulators typically use it in very small quantities, measured in parts per million (ppm), to achieve the intended flavor effect without creating an overpowering taste.

## Safety Assessment

Cinnamyl isovalerate has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, which means it has not undergone the formal FDA GRAS determination process. However, the absence of GRAS status does not indicate that the compound is unsafe; rather, it reflects that a formal petition or notification may not have been submitted to the FDA, or that such a petition was not approved.

The FDA's adverse event reporting system contains zero reported adverse events associated with cinnamyl isovalerate. Similarly, no FDA recalls have been issued for products containing this compound. This absence of reported safety issues suggests that, at levels of use in food products, the compound has not demonstrated significant health concerns in real-world consumption scenarios.

The compound's safety profile is supported by its structural similarity to naturally occurring esters found in foods. Many ester flavorings undergo metabolism in the body similar to naturally occurring compounds, though individual assessment is necessary for regulatory purposes.

## Regulatory Status

Cinnamyl isovalerate operates under different regulatory frameworks depending on geographic location. In the United States, without GRAS status, products containing this flavoring agent must comply with FDA food additive regulations. The compound may be used under FDA authorization if it meets applicable food additive regulations, though specific approval petitions may be required depending on intended use.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains a flavor compounds database that evaluates food additives used in the European Union. Regulatory approval varies by jurisdiction, and manufacturers must ensure compliance with local regulations in their intended markets.

## Key Studies

Limited published scientific literature exists specifically focused on cinnamyl isovalerate toxicity or safety. Most safety assessment of synthetic esters relies on structural analogue data and studies of chemically similar compounds. The lack of significant research literature may reflect the compound's limited commercial use compared to more widely adopted flavoring agents.

Given the zero adverse events and zero recalls reported to the FDA, and considering the compound's use in food products without documented harm, cinnamyl isovalerate appears to have demonstrated practical safety in its food applications. However, comprehensive toxicological studies specific to this compound would provide additional confidence in its safety profile.

Manufacturers using this flavoring agent should maintain documentation of its safety assessment and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations in their target markets.

## 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. "Cinnamyl Isovalerate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/cinnamyl-isovalerate. Accessed 2026-05-19.