What is Ethyl Cis-4-octenoate?
Ethyl cis-4-octenoate (CAS Number: 34495-71-1) is a synthetic flavoring compound belonging to the class of aliphatic esters. It is an organic molecule characterized by a linear eight-carbon chain with a double bond in the cis configuration at the fourth position, esterified with ethanol. This compound is manufactured through chemical synthesis rather than extracted from natural sources, though similar compounds may occur in nature.
Common Uses
Ethyl cis-4-octenoate is utilized primarily in the flavor industry as a flavoring agent or flavor adjuvant. It is added to processed foods and beverages in very small quantities—typically measured in parts per million (ppm)—to impart fruity, green, and fresh sensory characteristics. Common applications include flavored beverages, confectionery products, baked goods, dairy products, and savory snacks. As a component of complex flavor systems, it works synergistically with other flavor compounds to achieve desired taste profiles while remaining largely undetectable as an individual ingredient.
Safety Assessment
Ethyl cis-4-octenoate has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, which means it has not been formally affirmed through the GRAS notification process. However, this classification does not indicate the compound is unsafe. Rather, it reflects that formal safety evaluation through the FDA's GRAS review procedure has not been completed or submitted.
According to FDA records, there are zero reported adverse events associated with this additive and zero product recalls linked to its presence. This absence of adverse event reports and recalls suggests no safety issues have been identified in practical food use. The compound is used in food in extremely small quantities, which substantially limits potential exposure levels.
As a synthetic flavoring agent, this compound is subject to the same safety principles applied to other food additives: it is used at levels well below any levels that might cause concern, and typical food use involves minimal human consumption per serving.
Regulatory Status
While ethyl cis-4-octenoate has not achieved FDA GRAS status, it may be used in food under FDA regulations for synthetic flavoring substances. The FDA maintains Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21 Part 182, which lists approved synthetic flavoring agents. Approval and regulatory acceptance can vary by jurisdiction.
In the European Union, flavoring substances are regulated under Regulation (EC) No. 1334/2008. Similar to the FDA approach, the EU maintains a list of approved flavoring compounds, though regulatory status may differ between regions.
The lack of GRAS status does not prevent a flavoring compound from being used legally in food; rather, it indicates the specific formal notification pathway has not been pursued or completed by manufacturers or the scientific community.
Key Studies
Limited published scientific literature specifically addresses ethyl cis-4-octenoate in isolation. Flavoring compounds in this chemical class are generally evaluated through structural and toxicological analysis rather than extensive independent clinical studies. The flavor and fragrance industry typically conducts safety assessments based on:
- Chemical structure analysis and comparison to known safe compounds
- Metabolic fate studies showing rapid breakdown and elimination
- Acute toxicity testing where applicable
- Assessment of use levels and dietary exposure
The absence of reported adverse events over years of use in food products serves as additional evidence of practical safety at current use levels. Regulatory agencies rely on combined evidence from chemical analysis, use patterns, and real-world safety records when evaluating synthetic flavoring agents.