# Isobutyl 2-butenoate

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 589-66-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Isobutyl 2-butenoate (CAS 589-66-2) is an organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It is not currently approved as a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) substance by the FDA, though it has no documented adverse events or recalls associated with its use.

## 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 Isobutyl 2-butenoate?

Isobutyl 2-butenoate is an organic ester compound classified as a flavoring agent. It has the CAS registry number 589-66-2 and belongs to the family of butenoate esters commonly used in food and beverage applications. The compound is characterized by its volatile nature, which makes it suitable for imparting aroma and taste characteristics to food products.

## Common Uses

Isobutyl 2-butenoate is primarily used as a flavoring agent or adjuvant in the food industry. Its applications typically include use in beverages, confectionery, baked goods, and other processed foods where fruity or complex flavor profiles are desired. The compound contributes to the overall sensory experience of food products by enhancing or modifying their flavor characteristics. As with many synthetic flavoring compounds, it is used in very small quantities to achieve the desired flavor intensity.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there are zero documented adverse events and zero recalls associated with isobutyl 2-butenoate. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests that products containing this additive have not generated safety concerns that would prompt regulatory action or consumer complaints reported to the FDA. However, the lack of adverse events does not necessarily indicate comprehensive safety data, as reporting of minor or unreported incidents may not be complete.

The compound's safety profile would depend on factors such as the concentration used in food products, frequency of exposure, and cumulative dietary intake. Like other synthetic flavoring compounds, isobutyl 2-butenoate is typically used at very low concentrations, which may contribute to its safety record.

## Regulatory Status

Isobutyl 2-butenoate is not currently listed as a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) substance by the FDA. This classification means that while the compound may be used in food, it has not undergone the formal GRAS determination process or does not meet the criteria for GRAS status. Despite this, there are no indications that the compound is prohibited or restricted from use in food products in the United States.

Different regulatory bodies around the world may have varying approval statuses for this compound. Food manufacturers using isobutyl 2-butenoate in products intended for different markets should verify its regulatory status in those specific jurisdictions, as flavoring agent regulations vary internationally.

## Key Studies

Published scientific literature on isobutyl 2-butenoate appears limited in the public domain. The compound's long-standing use in the flavor industry without documented safety incidents suggests an acceptable practical safety record. However, formal toxicological studies specific to this compound may not be readily available in FDA databases or published literature.

For comprehensive safety information, manufacturers typically rely on data from flavor supplier documentation and general knowledge about related butenoate esters. Regulatory agencies like the FDA and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) maintain databases of flavoring compounds, though detailed safety assessments may vary depending on the level of regulatory scrutiny each compound has received.

Consumers seeking more detailed safety information about products containing isobutyl 2-butenoate can contact manufacturers directly, as they are required to maintain safety documentation for ingredients used in their products.

## 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. "Isobutyl 2-butenoate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/isobutyl-2-butenoate. Accessed 2026-05-19.