# Phenethyl Isovalerate

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/phenethyl-isovalerate.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 140-26-1
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Phenethyl isovalerate is a synthetic flavoring compound used to create fruity, floral, and sweet aromatic profiles in food products. It functions as a flavoring agent to enhance or modify the taste and aroma of beverages, confections, and other processed foods.

## 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 Phenethyl Isovalerate?

Phenethyl isovalerate (CAS Number 140-26-1) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the ester class of chemicals. It is composed of phenethyl alcohol combined with isovaleric acid through esterification. The compound appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic fruity, floral aroma reminiscent of berries and other fruits. In chemical structure, it consists of a phenethyl group attached to an isovalerate moiety, making it a member of the larger family of synthetic flavor compounds used extensively in the food industry.

## Common Uses

Phenethyl isovalerate is primarily used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. Its fruity and slightly floral aromatic profile makes it suitable for formulation in:

- Soft drinks and carbonated beverages
- Flavored waters and sports drinks
- Confectionery products including candies and chewing gums
- Baked goods and desserts
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milks
- Jam and fruit-based spreads
- Ice creams and frozen desserts

The compound typically appears in formulations at very low concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), as is standard for synthetic flavoring agents. Its role is to provide or enhance fruity and floral notes that appeal to consumer preferences for natural-tasting products.

## Safety Assessment

Phenethyl isovalerate has not been approved by the FDA as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance, which means it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process. However, the FDA has received zero adverse event reports associated with this additive, and there are no recorded recalls linked to phenethyl isovalerate in the FDA database. This absence of reported adverse events suggests no widespread safety concerns have emerged from its use in the food supply.

The safety profile of phenethyl isovalerate appears favorable based on available data. As a synthetic ester, it belongs to a chemical class that has been extensively studied. Similar compounds in the ester family have demonstrated acceptable safety profiles when used at typical flavoring concentrations. The very low concentrations at which phenethyl isovalerate is used in foods further reduces potential exposure concerns.

Toxicological data on phenethyl isovalerate is limited in the public domain, which is not unusual for minor flavoring agents. Standard safety testing would examine acute toxicity, potential sensitization, and mutagenic or carcinogenic potential, typical endpoints for flavoring substance evaluation.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, phenethyl isovalerate is not on the FDA's GRAS list, meaning manufacturers using this ingredient should have appropriate documentation supporting its safety in the intended food applications. The European Union's food additive regulations do not currently list phenethyl isovalerate as an approved food additive in their comprehensive database.

Despite not having GRAS status, the ingredient is used in food products in some markets, typically under the assumption that it falls within acceptable use levels and meets existing food safety standards. Companies using this ingredient are responsible for maintaining safety documentation and compliance with applicable food laws in their respective jurisdictions.

## Key Studies

Published scientific literature specifically examining phenethyl isovalerate is limited. Most information about safety and functional properties derives from general knowledge of synthetic ester chemistry and flavor compound science. The structural similarity to other approved esters in the flavor industry suggests comparable safety characteristics, though direct comparative studies are not readily available in peer-reviewed literature.

The absence of reported adverse events and regulatory actions provides some reassurance about its safety at typical use levels, though additional systematic safety data would strengthen confidence in its use as a food flavoring agent.

## 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. "Phenethyl Isovalerate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/phenethyl-isovalerate. Accessed 2026-05-19.