# Lauryl Acetate

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/lauryl-acetate
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/lauryl-acetate.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 112-66-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Lauryl acetate is a synthetic flavoring compound derived from lauric acid and acetic acid. It is used in food manufacturing to provide fruity and waxy flavor notes in various processed foods and beverages.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | approved |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Lauryl Acetate?

Lauryl acetate (CAS Number 112-66-3) is a synthetic ester formed through the combination of lauric acid and acetic acid. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, slightly waxy odor. As a member of the acetate ester family of flavor compounds, lauryl acetate is classified as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in food applications.

## Common Uses

Lauryl acetate is primarily used in the food industry as a flavoring agent to enhance or create specific taste profiles in processed foods and beverages. Its fruity and waxy characteristics make it suitable for applications in:

- Confectionery products
- Flavored beverages
- Dairy products
- Baked goods
- Flavor compositions and compound flavorings

The compound functions as part of complex flavor systems, where it contributes to the overall sensory profile rather than serving as the sole flavoring ingredient.

## Safety Assessment

Lauryl acetate has not been formally evaluated for GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status by the FDA. However, the absence of GRAS designation does not indicate a safety concern; rather, it reflects that the compound has not undergone the specific FDA petition and review process for this classification.

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported in connection with lauryl acetate consumption, and zero product recalls have been issued related to this ingredient. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests the compound has not caused documented harm in food applications.

The safety profile of lauryl acetate is supported by its structural similarity to other acetate esters that are approved for use in food. As a synthetic flavoring compound, it undergoes quality control and purity specifications to ensure consistency and safety in food manufacturing.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, lauryl acetate may be used as a flavoring agent under FDA regulations for food additives. While it lacks GRAS status, it can be employed in food manufacturing under the authority of FDA food additive regulations. The specific limitations on use levels and applications would depend on the regulatory framework applicable to synthetic flavorings in the relevant food category.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and other international regulatory bodies maintain separate assessments of flavor compounds. Regulatory approval and use levels may vary between jurisdictions.

## Key Studies

Limited published literature specifically addresses lauryl acetate in isolation. Safety data for this compound is generally derived from:

- General toxicology studies on acetate esters as a chemical class
- Sensory and flavor chemistry research establishing its organoleptic properties
- Manufacturing specifications and purity standards
- Comparative safety assessments with structurally similar approved flavor compounds

The lack of reported adverse events and recalls indicates that empirical safety experience with lauryl acetate in food applications has been favorable. However, comprehensive independent safety studies specifically focused on this individual compound appear limited in publicly available literature.

For manufacturers and regulatory professionals requiring detailed safety information, submission to regulatory authorities typically requires technical data on manufacturing methods, purity specifications, and intended use levels.

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