# Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 77105-51-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate (CAS 77105-51-2) is an organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts savory, sulfur-based aromatic characteristics to 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 Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate?

Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate is an organic ester compound classified as a flavoring agent. The molecule contains a methylthio group (a sulfur-containing moiety), which contributes distinctive aromatic properties. This compound is part of a broader category of synthetic flavoring substances used in food manufacturing to enhance or create specific taste and aroma profiles, particularly those with savory or sulfur-like characteristics.

## Common Uses

This flavoring agent is used in small quantities in processed foods and beverages where savory, umami-enhancing, or sulfur-based flavor notes are desired. Typical applications may include:

- Savory snacks and seasonings
- Processed meat products
- Dairy-based flavoring systems
- Condiments and sauces
- Beverage flavoring systems

As with most synthetic flavoring agents, it is used at very low concentrations (typically parts per million) to achieve desired sensory effects.

## Safety Assessment

Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status. However, there are no reported adverse events associated with this additive in FDA databases, and no recalls have been issued involving this substance.

The lack of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate safety concerns; rather, it may reflect limited submission data, limited historical use, or incomplete safety dossier submission to regulatory authorities. Many flavoring substances operate under different regulatory pathways, including the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) GRAS program, which maintains its own database of approved flavoring ingredients.

The compound's chemical structure—containing a methylthio group—is not inherently concerning. Methylthio-containing compounds are present naturally in foods like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables, though this synthetic version's safety profile should be established through appropriate toxicological data.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, this additive is not listed on the FDA's official GRAS list. It may be used under specific regulatory frameworks:

- It may be evaluated as part of the FEMA Expert Panel's GRAS assessment for flavoring substances
- Use may be permitted under 21 CFR 182 (indirect food additives) or other regulatory sections if appropriate safety data exists
- International regulatory status varies; some countries may have different approvals or restrictions

Manufacturers using this ingredient should maintain appropriate documentation of its safety, including composition, specifications, and any toxicological studies performed.

## Key Studies

Published toxicological or safety data specifically focused on this compound appears limited in publicly available literature. The absence of adverse event reports and recalls in FDA databases suggests either minimal use levels or lack of associated safety issues to date.

For compounds lacking robust public safety data, manufacturers typically rely on:
- Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis comparing the compound to similar approved flavoring substances
- Acute and subchronic toxicity studies
- Metabolic pathway analysis
- Specifications and purity assessments

Potential metabolic pathways would likely involve ester hydrolysis to yield methylthio-propenoate and ethanol, both of which are further metabolized by standard Phase I and Phase II enzyme systems.

## 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. "Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-2-propenoate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/ethyl-3-methylthio-2-propenoate. Accessed 2026-05-19.