Our Verdict: SAFE

Menthyl Acetate

CAS89-48-5

This additive is considered safe

Based on current FDA and EFSA assessments. Approved in both the United States and the European Union.

Adverse Events

0

FDA CFSAN

FDA Recalls

0

OpenFDA

United States

Approved

FDA

European Union

Not_evaluated

EFSA

Menthyl Acetate — food additive

Menthyl acetate (CAS 89-48-5) is a naturally occurring organic compound derived from or chemically similar to peppermint that functions as a flavoring agent in food products. It provides a cooling, minty taste and aroma to confections, beverages, and other food items where mint flavoring is desired.

US Status

Approved

FDA

EU Status

Not_evaluated

EFSA

Adverse Events

0

FDA CFSAN

FDA Recalls

0

OpenFDA

Global Regulatory Status

United States
ApprovedFDA
European Union
Not EvaluatedEFSA
United Kingdom
Not EvaluatedUK FSA
Canada
ApprovedHealth Canada
Australia
Not EvaluatedFSANZ
Japan
Not EvaluatedMHLW
South Korea
Not EvaluatedMFDS
Brazil
Not EvaluatedANVISA
China
Not EvaluatedNHC / GB 2760
India
Not EvaluatedFSSAI
Country data is sourced from official regulatory databases and enriched via AI analysis. Always verify with the relevant national authority before making dietary decisions.

What is Menthyl Acetate?

Menthyl acetate is an organic ester compound with the chemical formula C12H22O2. It is the acetate ester of menthol, a naturally occurring alcohol found in peppermint and spearmint plants. Menthyl acetate can be isolated from natural peppermint oil or synthesized chemically to create an identical compound. The substance is characterized by a strong, fresh minty odor and cooling taste properties that make it valuable in flavor formulation.

Common Uses

Menthyl acetate is used as a flavoring agent in various food and beverage applications, including chewing gum, candy, mints, toothpaste-flavored products, and some beverages. Its primary appeal derives from its intense cooling sensation and minty flavor profile. The compound is also utilized in pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, and personal care items where mint flavoring and the cooling effect are desired attributes. In food manufacturing, menthyl acetate is typically used in small quantities—measured in parts per million—due to its potent flavor contribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menthyl Acetate?

Menthyl acetate (CAS 89-48-5) is a naturally occurring organic compound derived from or chemically similar to peppermint that functions as a flavoring agent in food products. It provides a cooling, minty taste and aroma to confections, beverages, and other food items where mint flavoring is desired.

Is Menthyl Acetate safe?

Menthyl Acetate is currently rated "safe" based on FDA and EFSA data. It is approved in the US and not_evaluated in the EU. There are 0 FDA adverse event reports associated with this additive.

Is Menthyl Acetate banned in any country?

Menthyl Acetate is approved in the United States and not_evaluated in the European Union. Review the regulatory status cards above for the most current information.

Data Sources

FDASubstances Added to Food (EAFUS)

Comprehensive list of 3,971 substances added to food, maintained by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

OpenFDAFood Adverse Events & Recalls Database

Public API providing access to FDA adverse event reports and food recall enforcement actions.

EFSAOpenFoodTox Chemical Hazards Database

European Food Safety Authority's open database of chemical hazards in the food and feed chain.

Data is sourced exclusively from official government databases and updated periodically. This page does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for dietary guidance.

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