What is Methyl Cis-4-octenoate?
Methyl cis-4-octenoate (CAS Number: 21063-71-8) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the class of esters. It is characterized by its molecular structure containing an eight-carbon chain with a double bond in the cis configuration at the fourth position, and a methyl ester functional group. This compound is colorless to pale yellow and has a fruity, fresh aroma profile commonly described as green, citrus-like, or berry-like.
Common Uses
Methyl cis-4-octenoate is used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry to enhance and create specific flavor profiles. It is particularly valued in:
- Fruit-flavored beverages and drinks
- Candy and confectionery products
- Dairy products including yogurts and flavored milk
- Baked goods and desserts
- Processed snack foods
The compound is typically used in very small quantities, measured in parts per million (ppm), as it is highly potent. Its fruity character makes it useful for creating authentic fruit flavors without using actual fruit ingredients, reducing production costs and extending shelf life.
Safety Assessment
Methyl cis-4-octenoate has not been designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, the absence of GRAS status does not indicate the substance is unsafe. Rather, it indicates that formal GRAS affirmation procedures were not completed or pursued by manufacturers. The compound may still be used in food products through the Food Additive Petition process if manufacturers have submitted appropriate safety data.
According to FDA databases, there have been zero recorded adverse events associated with methyl cis-4-octenoate, and zero recalls linked to this specific compound. This absence of reported incidents suggests no immediate safety concerns have emerged from its use in food products.
As a synthetic ester, methyl cis-4-octenoate belongs to a broader category of esters that have been extensively studied. Many similar compounds have established safety profiles based on toxicological testing, metabolism studies, and usage patterns. The structural similarity of this compound to other approved flavoring esters suggests it likely undergoes metabolic breakdown in the body comparable to related compounds.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, methyl cis-4-octenoate is not listed as a GRAS substance by the FDA. However, it may be used as a food additive under FDA regulations if supported by adequate safety data through the Food Additive Petition process or if it qualifies under other regulatory pathways.
The compound's regulatory status may vary by country. In the European Union, flavoring substances are regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. The regulatory approach in Europe requires that flavoring substances be evaluated for safety before approval for use in food products.
Manufacturers utilizing methyl cis-4-octenoate must comply with applicable regulations in their target markets and use the substance only at levels determined to be safe based on available scientific evidence and regulatory approval status.
Key Studies
While specific toxicological studies on methyl cis-4-octenoate alone are limited in published literature, the safety evaluation of synthetic flavoring esters generally involves standard toxicological testing protocols. These typically include acute toxicity studies, repeated-dose studies, and assessment of potential genetic or reproductive effects.
The absence of reported adverse events and recalls provides real-world evidence of safe use patterns when the substance is employed at approved levels. The chemical structure and properties suggest metabolic pathways similar to other food-approved esters that undergo ester hydrolysis in the digestive system.
Additional research and published safety data specific to this compound would provide more comprehensive assessment, but current available evidence does not indicate safety concerns at levels used in food applications.