# Isobornyl Isovalerate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 7779-73-9
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Isobornyl isovalerate is a synthetic flavoring compound composed of isoborneol and isovaleric acid. It is used in food and beverage manufacturing to provide fruity, woody, and herbal flavor notes.

## 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 Isobornyl Isovalerate?

Isobornyl isovalerate (CAS Number: 7779-73-9) is a synthetic ester formed from the combination of isoborneol and isovaleric acid. It belongs to the class of organic compounds known as esters, which are widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry. The compound has a molecular structure that contributes fruity, woody, and slightly herbal sensory characteristics valued in food formulations.

This additive exists as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinctive aromatic profile. Like many synthetic flavor compounds, isobornyl isovalerate is designed to enhance or modify the sensory experience of food and beverage products without significantly altering their nutritional composition.

## Common Uses

Isobornyl isovalerate functions primarily as a flavoring agent or adjuvant in food manufacturing. It is employed in various food and beverage applications where fruity and woody flavor profiles are desired, including:

- Beverages (juices, soft drinks, flavored waters)
- Confectionery and candy products
- Baked goods and bakery items
- Dairy products
- Flavor formulations and compound flavoring systems

The compound is typically used in very small concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), which is standard practice for synthetic flavor compounds. The actual usage levels depend on the specific food application and desired intensity of flavor.

## Safety Assessment

Isobornyl isovalerate has no reported adverse events in the FDA database and has not been associated with any food recalls. These data points suggest a favorable safety record in commercial food applications.

The compound's safety profile should be considered within the context of its intended use: as a minor food ingredient present in trace quantities. Flavor compounds are typically ingested in amounts far below levels that would cause toxicological concern. The synthetic nature of the compound does not inherently indicate safety or hazard; rather, comprehensive evaluation of its toxicological properties, proposed use levels, and dietary exposure is required.

Additional toxicological information on isobornyl isovalerate is limited in publicly available scientific literature. The absence of reported adverse events and recalls indicates no documented problems under normal food manufacturing and consumption conditions.

## Regulatory Status

It is important to note that isobornyl isovalerate does not carry FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status. This designation means it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process with the FDA, which would require submission of safety data and expert consensus documentation.

However, the absence of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate the substance is unsafe or prohibited in food. Flavor compounds may be used in food under FDA regulations through various pathways, including as part of established flavor industry practices or under specific regulatory permissions for flavoring agents. The regulatory pathway and allowability depend on the specific jurisdiction and food application.

In the European Union, flavor compound regulations are governed by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) and EU Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. Regulatory approval requirements and acceptable use levels may differ between regions.

## Key Studies

Publicly available peer-reviewed research specifically evaluating isobornyl isovalerate appears limited in scientific literature databases. The compound's long history of use in flavor applications without documented adverse events provides some historical safety data, though this should not substitute for comprehensive toxicological assessment if safety questions arise.

For manufacturers and regulatory bodies seeking detailed safety information, toxicological studies examining acute toxicity, repeated dose toxicity, genotoxicity, and reproductive/developmental toxicity may be available through industry databases or manufacturers. Such studies, if conducted, would follow international test guidelines (OECD) established for chemical safety assessment.

Researchers and consumers seeking additional safety information may consult flavor industry associations, regulatory submissions, or contact manufacturers directly for available safety documentation.

## 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. "Isobornyl Isovalerate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/isobornyl-isovalerate. Accessed 2026-05-19.