Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-trans-2-propenoate

Ethyl 3-(methylthio)-trans-2-propenoate (CAS Number: 136115-65-6) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of flavoring agents. It contains a methylthio group (a sulfur-containing moiety) attached to a propenoate ester structure. This molecular configuration is characteristic of sulfur-containing flavor compounds, which are commonly found in natural foods like onions, garlic, and certain vegetables. The compound is manufactured synthetically for use in food flavoring applications.

This additive functions as a flavoring agent or flavor adjuvant in food products. Flavoring agents in this chemical class are typically used in very small concentrations—often measured in parts per million (ppm)—to impart or enhance savory, sulfurous, or onion/garlic-like flavor notes. Such compounds are generally incorporated into processed foods including seasonings, snack foods, soups, sauces, and other savory products where these flavor profiles are desired. The specific end-use concentration would depend on the desired flavor intensity and the food application.

According to available FDA data, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with this additive and zero product recalls. This suggests that, based on current surveillance systems, no safety incidents have been formally documented or linked to its use in food.

The safety profile of synthetic flavor compounds is typically evaluated based on their chemical structure, proposed use levels, metabolic fate, and toxicological data. Sulfur-containing flavor compounds are generally recognized as having low toxicological concern when used at typical flavoring concentrations, as sulfur is a naturally occurring element in many foods and amino acids.

However, the absence of reported adverse events does not constitute a formal safety approval or comprehensive toxicological clearance. Safety assessments require controlled studies examining absorption, distribution, metabolism, and potential effects at various dose levels.

This compound has NOT received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status. GRAS designation requires either a history of safe use in food before 1958 or completion of comprehensive safety testing and expert consensus on safety. The lack of GRAS status indicates that either: (1) a formal safety petition has not been submitted to the FDA, (2) a petition was submitted but not approved, or (3) the compound is used under an alternative regulatory pathway.

In the United States, synthetic flavor compounds can be legally used if they meet FDA regulations under 21 CFR Part 182 (Indirect Food Additives) or other applicable sections, even without GRAS status, provided they comply with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines and are used at levels that do not exceed established safe use concentrations.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains separate assessments of flavoring compounds. The regulatory status in the EU may differ from that in the United States. Manufacturers using this compound internationally must comply with applicable regulations in each jurisdiction.

Specific published toxicological or safety studies on ethyl 3-(methylthio)-trans-2-propenoate were not identified in this overview. Regulatory decisions regarding this compound's safety would be based on proprietary safety data submitted by manufacturers, structural analogs, and general knowledge of sulfur-containing flavor compound metabolism.

For compounds in this chemical class, safety assessments typically consider metabolism of the ester moiety, fate of the methylthio group, and comparison to naturally occurring sulfur-containing compounds with established safety histories. The FDA's Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) panel has evaluated numerous similar compounds, and such evaluations often inform regulatory decisions.

Any organization seeking to manufacture or import this additive should maintain current scientific literature and regulatory correspondence regarding its approved uses and maximum permitted levels.