Ethyl Cis-4,7-octadienoate

Ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate (CAS Number: 69925-33-3) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the ester family of flavor molecules. It is a clear to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, somewhat vegetable-like aroma. This compound is chemically derived and does not occur naturally in significant quantities in food sources. The molecule consists of an octadiene backbone with ester functionality, which contributes to its volatile characteristics and sensory properties.

Ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate is primarily employed as a flavoring agent in the food industry to enhance or create fruity and vegetable-like flavor profiles. It may be used in processed beverages, dairy products, baked goods, confectionery items, and savory food applications where such flavor notes are desired. The compound typically appears in formulations at very low concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), as is standard practice with synthetic flavor compounds. Its use is particularly common in regions where synthetic flavoring agents are permitted for food manufacturing.

This flavoring compound has not been formally designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, which means it has not undergone the standard GRAS notification process or been explicitly approved through FDA petition review. However, the absence of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate safety concerns; rather, it reflects the regulatory pathway and notification history of the substance.

According to FDA databases, there are zero adverse events reported in connection with ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate, and zero product recalls have been attributed to this ingredient. This lack of adverse reporting suggests the compound has not generated safety signals in the post-market surveillance systems monitored by regulatory agencies.

The safety profile of this compound is supported by its classification as a flavor additive used in minimal quantities. Like other synthetic esters in the flavor industry, ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate is intended for use at concentrations far below levels that would pose toxicological concern. The ester functional group is generally recognized as metabolizable by human digestive systems, similar to other food-grade esters.

Ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate does not have FDA GRAS status. However, its use is permitted in food products in various jurisdictions under different regulatory frameworks. In the European Union, it may be evaluated under the Food Flavourings Regulation (EC) No. 1334/2008, though specific approval status should be verified with current EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) databases. In the United States, any food containing this ingredient should comply with FDA regulations regarding food additives, and its use would fall under the Food Additives Amendment guidelines.

Manufacturers using this flavoring agent are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable regulations in their target markets and maintaining proper documentation of safety and usage.

Specific published toxicological or safety studies specifically on ethyl cis-4,7-octadienoate are limited in the public scientific literature. The safety evaluation of this and similar synthetic flavor esters is typically conducted by ingredient suppliers and regulatory bodies using standard methodologies including acute toxicity testing, subchronic studies, and metabolic pathway analysis.

The broader category of aliphatic esters used in flavoring has been extensively reviewed by flavor industry safety committees and regulatory agencies. These compounds generally demonstrate low toxicity profiles when used as intended in food applications. Any company manufacturing products containing this ingredient would have conducted or obtained appropriate safety documentation consistent with their regulatory obligations.