# Eugenyl Acetate

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 93-28-7
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Eugenyl acetate (CAS 93-28-7) is a naturally-derived organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts a clove-like, spicy aromatic note and is utilized in small quantities to enhance flavor profiles in various food and beverage 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 Eugenyl Acetate?

Eugenyl acetate is an organic ester compound with the chemical formula C11H12O3. It is the acetate ester of eugenol, a naturally occurring phenolic compound found primarily in clove buds, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Eugenyl acetate exists as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic spicy, clove-like aroma. The compound is produced synthetically for use in food flavoring applications, though it also occurs naturally in essential oils from aromatic plants.

## Common Uses

Eugenyl acetate functions as a flavoring agent and flavor adjuvant in the food industry. It is employed in small concentrations to impart or enhance clove-like and spicy sensory notes in food and beverage products. Common applications include:

- Baked goods and confectionery
- Beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Dairy products
- Meat and savory products
- Condiments and seasonings
- Chewing gum and mints

The compound's natural origin and pleasant aromatic profile make it valuable for manufacturers seeking to create authentic spice-forward flavor notes without using whole spices or their extracts.

## Safety Assessment

Eugenyl acetate has not been formally approved by the FDA as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). However, it has been designated as GRAS by expert panels in Europe and is utilized in food flavoring under EU regulations. The compound's safety profile is supported by its structural similarity to eugenol, a naturally-occurring compound with established safety data, combined with its low use levels in food applications.

The FDA's adverse event reporting system contains zero reported adverse events associated with eugenyl acetate consumption through food. Additionally, there are no FDA-initiated recalls linked to this additive. These data points support the absence of documented acute or chronic safety concerns in normal food use.

When considering safety, it is important to note that eugenyl acetate is used in very small quantities—typically in the parts per million range—which significantly reduces exposure levels. The body's ability to metabolize acetate esters and the low concentration used in foods contribute to the favorable safety profile.

## Regulatory Status

Eugenyl acetate occupies an interesting regulatory position internationally. In the European Union, it is listed as an authorized flavoring substance and is permitted for use in food with restrictions on maximum levels. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated flavoring compounds including eugenyl acetate and determined acceptable use levels.

In the United States, while not GRAS-designated, eugenyl acetate may be used in food under the FDA's provisions for flavoring substances of uncertain GRAS status when used in accordance with established industry standards and at appropriate levels. Some manufacturers market products containing eugenyl acetate without requiring explicit FDA pre-approval due to the "flavoring exemption" framework, provided usage is consistent with safe historical practice.

The compound's regulatory status reflects the distinction between formal GRAS approval and actual permitted use—some substances operate within regulatory frameworks without holding official GRAS designation.

## Key Studies

Limited published research specifically addresses eugenyl acetate in isolation. Most safety data derives from:

1. Structure-activity relationship assessments comparing eugenyl acetate to eugenol and other naturally-occurring phenolic compounds
2. European flavoring safety evaluation dossiers submitted to EFSA
3. Toxicological data on the parent compound eugenol, which has undergone more extensive evaluation
4. Long-term consumption data from populations in regions where clove-derived compounds are dietary staples

The lack of reported adverse events and absence of recalls suggest that historical food use has been characterized by safety. However, comprehensive modern toxicological studies specifically examining eugenyl acetate at various dose levels would provide additional confirmation of its safety margins.

## 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. "Eugenyl Acetate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/eugenyl-acetate. Accessed 2026-05-19.