# Terpinyl Cinnamate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 10024-56-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

Terpinyl cinnamate (CAS 10024-56-3) is an organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It combines terpinol, a naturally occurring alcohol found in essential oils, with cinnamic acid to create fruity and spice-like flavor notes.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## What is Terpinyl Cinnamate?

Terpinyl cinnamate is a synthetic flavoring compound created by esterification of terpineol and cinnamic acid. It exists as a pale yellow to colorless liquid with a fruity, spicy aroma reminiscent of cinnamon with citrus undertones. The compound belongs to the ester class of organic molecules, which are commonly used in the flavor industry to create complex taste and aroma profiles.

## Common Uses

Terpinyl cinnamate is employed as a flavoring agent in various food and beverage products, including:

- Confectionery and candy
- Baked goods and desserts
- Beverages including soft drinks and flavored waters
- Dairy products such as yogurt and flavored milk
- Chewing gum and mints

The compound is typically used in very small quantities—measured in parts per million—to achieve the desired flavor profile without overwhelming other taste components.

## Safety Assessment

The FDA has not granted Terpinyl cinnamate GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status as a food additive. However, this designation does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it means the substance has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process with the FDA.

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported and zero recalls associated with terpinyl cinnamate, suggesting no documented safety incidents in the food supply. The absence of reported adverse events indicates that any exposures through food consumption have not produced identifiable negative health outcomes.

As an ester compound with a simple chemical structure, terpinyl cinnamate is expected to be metabolized readily by the body, similar to other food esters. The parent compounds—terpineol and cinnamic acid—are both present in natural foods and are generally recognized as safe by food regulatory authorities in multiple jurisdictions.

## Regulatory Status

Terpinyl cinnamate is not currently listed on the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) list for direct food use in the United States. This means that while it may be used in food products, it operates under different regulatory frameworks than GRAS substances.

In the European Union, this compound may fall under the flavor regulations (EC 1334/2008), though specific approval status varies by member state. Some international food markets permit its use as a flavoring under established flavor regulations, while its status in other regions remains restricted or undefined.

Manufacturers considering use of this ingredient should verify compliance with regulations in their specific jurisdictions and target markets, as flavor additive approval varies considerably worldwide.

## Key Studies

Limited published research specifically examines terpinyl cinnamate in isolation. However, the compound's chemical similarity to naturally occurring esters and the safety profile of its component parts inform its expected safety profile.

Terpineol, the terpene alcohol component, has been extensively studied and appears in cosmetics, fragrances, and foods without documented widespread safety concerns. Cinnamic acid and cinnamates are present naturally in spices and have long histories of safe consumption.

The esterification process—combining these two compounds—creates a larger molecule that is lipophilic (fat-soluble), which may affect absorption and metabolism but is consistent with many approved flavor compounds.

Additional toxicological studies would be needed to establish a comprehensive safety database. Interested parties may petition the FDA for GRAS status if they wish to pursue formal recognition and broader use in U.S. food products.

## 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. "Terpinyl Cinnamate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/terpinyl-cinnamate. Accessed 2026-05-20.