# Cis-3-hexenyl Cis-3-hexenoate

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/cis-3-hexenyl-cis-3-hexenoate
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/cis-3-hexenyl-cis-3-hexenoate.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 61444-38-0
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate is a naturally-derived organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts fresh, green, fruity notes and is employed in small quantities 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 Cis-3-hexenyl Cis-3-hexenoate?

Cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate (CAS Number: 61444-38-0) is an aliphatic ester classified as a flavoring agent. This compound is derived from or chemically mimics volatile compounds found in nature, particularly in fruits and plants. It belongs to the broader category of synthetic flavoring substances used to replicate natural taste and aroma profiles in food manufacturing. The molecule consists of a hexenyl alcohol esterified with a hexenoic acid, both in the cis configuration, which contributes to its specific sensory characteristics.

## Common Uses

Cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate is primarily used as a flavor component in processed foods and beverages. Its applications include:

- Fruit-flavored confectionery and candies
- Beverage flavoring, particularly in juice and soft drink formulations
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milk drinks
- Baked goods and snack foods
- Ice cream and frozen desserts

The compound is valued for its ability to provide fresh, grassy, and fruity notes that enhance consumer perception of naturalness in food products. Like other flavor compounds, it is used in very small quantities—typically in the parts per million (ppm) range—to achieve the desired sensory effect without overwhelming other flavor components.

## Safety Assessment

Cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate has not been formally evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) program. However, this regulatory status should be interpreted carefully: lack of GRAS status does not indicate the substance is unsafe, but rather that a formal GRAS determination or food additive petition has not been submitted or completed through FDA channels.

The compound has generated zero adverse events reported to the FDA and has no associated recall history, suggesting a favorable safety profile in practical use. When flavoring agents are not GRAS-designated, they typically fall under FDA regulations for food additives and must meet safety standards before market inclusion. Many flavoring compounds operate under established frameworks such as the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) GRAS list, which provides an alternative safety assessment pathway.

The absence of reported adverse events combined with its use in small quantities typical of flavor compounds supports the overall safety profile. However, like all synthetic compounds, individual sensitivities or allergic reactions remain theoretically possible in susceptible populations.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate is not listed on the FDA's GRAS inventory. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains its own assessment frameworks for flavoring substances, with regulations outlined in Regulation (EC) No. 1334/2008. Regulatory status may vary by jurisdiction, and manufacturers using this compound should verify compliance with specific regional requirements.

The compound may be approved for use as a flavoring substance in certain countries under their respective food additive regulations, though verification with local regulatory bodies is recommended for current approval status.

## Key Studies

Limited published scientific literature specifically addresses cis-3-hexenyl cis-3-hexenoate in isolation. The compound's safety profile is generally informed by:

1. Its structural similarity to other hexenyl esters, which have been more extensively studied
2. General toxicology principles for aliphatic esters, which exhibit low systemic toxicity
3. Its use pattern as a volatile flavor compound in minimal quantities
4. Real-world exposure data showing no reported adverse events

The lack of specific studies does not indicate danger but reflects the reality that comprehensive toxicological data is not always published for every individual flavor compound. Safety evaluations typically draw from chemical class data, structural analysis, and historical use patterns.

## 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. "Cis-3-hexenyl Cis-3-hexenoate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/cis-3-hexenyl-cis-3-hexenoate. Accessed 2026-05-11.