# Menthyl Acetate

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**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 89-48-5
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

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.

## 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 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.

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