# (e)-2-hexenyl Valerate

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/e-2-hexenyl-valerate.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 56922-74-8
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

(E)-2-hexenyl valerate is a synthetic flavoring compound used to impart fruity and green notes to food and beverages. This ester is employed in small quantities to enhance flavor profiles in various processed food applications.

## 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 (E)-2-hexenyl Valerate?

(E)-2-hexenyl valerate is a synthetic organic compound classified as an ester flavoring agent. With the CAS number 56922-74-8, this additive belongs to the family of valerate esters commonly used in the food industry. The compound's structure consists of a hexenyl alcohol moiety bonded to valeric acid, creating a volatile molecule that contributes fruity and herbal sensory characteristics to food products. Like many synthetic flavoring agents, it is used at very low concentrations—typically measured in parts per million (ppm)—to achieve desired flavor effects.

## Common Uses

(E)-2-hexenyl valerate is utilized primarily in the flavoring industry to enhance the taste and aroma profiles of processed foods and beverages. Its applications may include:

- Fruit-flavored beverages and juices
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milks
- Confectionery and candy items
- Baked goods and snack foods
- Flavored waters and functional beverages

The compound is valued for its ability to contribute green, fruity, and slightly floral notes that complement natural fruit flavors or create novel flavor combinations. As with all synthetic flavoring agents, it functions as a flavor adjuvant rather than a primary flavor component.

## Safety Assessment

No adverse events associated with (E)-2-hexenyl valerate have been reported to the FDA, and no recalls involving this additive have been documented in FDA databases. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests a low incidence of adverse consumer reactions in commercial food applications.

The compound's safety profile is supported by its classification as a synthetic ester—a class of compounds with established use in food flavoring. Ester compounds are generally metabolized rapidly in the body through hydrolysis and conjugation pathways, which may contribute to their favorable safety profiles at levels used in food applications.

As a synthetic flavoring agent, (E)-2-hexenyl valerate is typically used in extremely small quantities, which further reduces the potential for adverse health effects. The margin of safety for flavoring agents is typically substantial due to these low use levels.

## Regulatory Status

(E)-2-hexenyl valerate is not on the FDA's Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list. However, this designation does not indicate that the substance is unsafe or prohibited. Rather, it reflects that the compound may not have undergone the formal GRAS notification process, or that the manufacturer has not pursued GRAS status through FDA channels.

In the United States, this additive may be used under FDA regulations if it has been approved through other regulatory pathways or if it meets specific criteria for use in food. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains separate standards and approvals for food additives in EU member states.

Manufacturers seeking to use (E)-2-hexenyl valerate in food products should verify current regulatory status in their specific jurisdiction and ensure compliance with applicable food additive regulations.

## Key Studies

Limited published scientific literature is available specifically focusing on (E)-2-hexenyl valerate. The broader class of valerate esters has been evaluated for flavor applications, with research supporting the safety profile of structurally similar compounds. General toxicological assessments of synthetic ester flavorings indicate that compounds in this category are metabolized efficiently and do not demonstrate accumulative toxicity at food-use levels.

The absence of reported adverse events and FDA recalls provides real-world evidence supporting the safe use of this compound in current food applications. However, continued monitoring and adherence to approved use levels remain important for maintaining food safety.

## 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. "(e)-2-hexenyl Valerate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/e-2-hexenyl-valerate. Accessed 2026-05-19.