What is Trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate?
Trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate (CAS Number 84642-60-4) is a synthetic organic compound classified as an ester. It consists of a butanoic acid moiety combined with a trans-2-octen-1-ol alcohol backbone. The compound belongs to the broader category of aliphatic esters commonly used in the fragrance and flavoring industries. Its chemical structure contributes fruity, pear-like, and slightly floral aromatic characteristics that make it useful in flavor formulations.
Common Uses
Trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate functions as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in food and beverage applications. Due to its aromatic profile, it is primarily used in:
- Fruit-flavored beverages and juices
- Dairy products including yogurts and flavored milk
- Confectionery items such as candies and hard candies
- Baked goods and sweet applications
- Processed snack foods
As a flavoring adjuvant, it may also be used in combination with other flavor compounds to enhance or modify the overall sensory profile of food products. The compound is typically used in very small quantities, with concentrations measured in parts per million (ppm) in final food products.
Safety Assessment
Trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate has not been submitted for or approved under the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) program. However, the absence of GRAS status does not necessarily indicate a safety concern—rather, it means the compound has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process with the FDA.
According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with this additive and zero recalls related to its use. This lack of adverse event reporting suggests that in its current applications and consumption levels, the compound has not been associated with observable health problems in the population.
As a synthetic ester structurally similar to other approved flavoring esters, trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate shares chemical characteristics with compounds that have undergone safety evaluation. The ester functional group itself is well-established in food flavoring applications. However, compound-specific toxicological data would be necessary for comprehensive safety characterization.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, flavoring substances are regulated under 21 CFR Part 182. While this compound is not GRAS-listed, it may be permitted for use in foods under FDA regulations if used in accordance with good manufacturing practices and if it has not been found to present a safety concern at its intended levels of use.
The regulatory status varies internationally. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains separate evaluations for flavoring substances used in European Union markets. The compound's approval status in other jurisdictions should be verified before use in products intended for those markets.
Manufacturers using this flavoring compound should maintain documentation of safety data, usage levels, and intended applications. The absence of a formal GRAS petition does not prevent use in foods, but regulatory compliance requires adherence to existing Food and Drug Administration guidelines for flavoring substances.
Key Studies
Published peer-reviewed studies specifically examining trans-2-octen-1-yl Butanoate appear limited in the open scientific literature. Safety assessments for synthetic esters used in flavoring typically examine acute toxicity, subchronic toxicity, and potential sensitization. The structural similarity of this compound to other approved alkyl esters suggests it would likely follow similar metabolic pathways involving ester hydrolysis and subsequent conjugation and excretion.
For comprehensive safety information, manufacturers and regulatory authorities typically reference proprietary safety data submitted during product development, along with structural analogue data for related esters approved in food applications. Consumers and professionals seeking detailed safety documentation should contact manufacturers or regulatory agencies directly.