(+/-)-cis- And Trans-2-methyl-2-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)cyclopropanecarbaldehyde

Cis- and trans-2-methyl-2-(4-methyl-3-pentenyl)cyclopropanecarbaldehyde (CAS Number: 904929-41-5) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of cyclopropane derivatives used in the flavor industry. The compound exists in two stereoisomeric forms—cis and trans configurations—which may have slightly different sensory properties. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with characteristic fruity and green notes commonly sought in flavor formulations.

This flavoring agent is utilized primarily in the production of processed foods and beverages where fruity, floral, and herbal flavor profiles are desired. Typical applications include flavored beverages, confectionery products, dairy products, and baked goods. The compound serves as a flavor adjuvant, meaning it works in combination with other flavoring substances to enhance or modify the overall sensory profile of food products. Due to its potency, it is typically used in very small concentrations measured in parts per million (ppm).

According to available FDA records, there are zero adverse events and zero recalls associated with this flavoring compound. The absence of reported safety incidents suggests no documented harm from its use in food applications at permitted levels. However, it is important to note that this compound is not currently listed as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA, which means it has not undergone the formal GRAS determination process.

The lack of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate safety concerns; rather, it may reflect that the manufacturer has not pursued or completed GRAS notification with the FDA. Many flavoring compounds operate under FDA approval without formal GRAS designation. Comprehensive toxicological data on this specific compound may be limited in the public domain, though safety assessments are typically conducted during the approval process.

As with all synthetic flavoring agents, this compound should only be used in food at levels established as safe by regulatory authorities. The principle of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) applies—flavoring agents are used at minimal effective concentrations.

This compound is not currently on the FDA's GRAS list, meaning it does not have GRAS notification status in the United States. However, it may be approved for use in certain food categories under FDA regulations, or it may be pending review. The distinction between GRAS status and FDA approval is important: substances can be legally used in food without GRAS designation if they meet other regulatory pathways.

Regulatory status may vary internationally. Manufacturers seeking to use this flavoring in different regions must comply with the specific food additive regulations of each jurisdiction, including requirements in the European Union, Canada, Australia, and other nations that maintain their own flavor ingredient approval processes.

Published independent safety data specifically on this individual compound appears limited in peer-reviewed literature. Flavoring safety assessments are often conducted using proprietary toxicological studies submitted to regulatory bodies as part of the approval process, which may not be publicly available in detail.

Safety evaluations for synthetic flavoring compounds of this type typically include acute toxicity studies, repeated-dose toxicity assessments, genotoxicity testing, and, when appropriate, reproductive or developmental toxicity studies. The specific design of safety studies depends on the intended use level and food categories where the compound will appear.

Interested parties can access additional safety information through the FDA's Food Additive Status List or by contacting the manufacturer directly for published safety data or technical documentation.