What is (+/-)-trans- And Cis-4,8-dimethyl-3,7-nonadien-2-yl Acetate?
(+/-)-trans- And Cis-4,8-dimethyl-3,7-nonadien-2-yl Acetate (CAS No. 91418-25-6) is a synthetic organic compound classified as a flavoring agent. It exists as a mixture of stereoisomers—specifically, both trans and cis configurations of the same molecular structure. The compound belongs to the acetate ester family, which are widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its chemical structure contains a dimethyl nonadienyl backbone with an acetate functional group, contributing fruity and floral aromatic characteristics to food and beverage formulations.
Common Uses
This flavoring agent is used in various food and beverage applications where fruity, floral, or woody taste notes are desired. Typical uses include beverages, confectionery, baked goods, dairy products, and savory food items. Like other synthetic flavoring compounds, it is typically used at very low concentrations—often measured in parts per million (ppm)—to achieve the desired sensory profile. The specific fruity and floral character of this compound makes it particularly valuable in premium flavor formulations where complex taste profiles are sought.
Safety Assessment
As of the available FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with this additive and zero product recalls. The absence of adverse event reports in FDA databases suggests no significant acute toxicity concerns have been documented in the food supply. However, it is important to note that this compound is not on the FDA's Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list, meaning it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process and is not presumed safe by FDA without specific authorization.
Like other synthetic flavor compounds, safety assessments typically consider factors such as acute toxicity, potential metabolic pathways in the human body, and the level of dietary exposure. The chemical structure—an acetate ester—belongs to a class of compounds that are generally metabolized readily by the body. The actual safety profile of this specific isomeric mixture would depend on toxicological testing data, which may exist in proprietary or regulatory dossiers not publicly available.
Regulatory Status
The regulatory status of this flavoring agent varies by jurisdiction. In the United States, while not on the GRAS list, it may be permitted for use under specific regulatory provisions or may require pre-market approval or petition for use. The European Union maintains separate regulations for flavoring substances under Regulation (EC) No. 1334/2008. Importers and manufacturers must verify current regulatory approval in their intended markets before use, as flavoring regulations continue to evolve.
Manufacturers using this additive should maintain documentation of its source, purity specifications, and any relevant safety data. Food companies incorporating this ingredient must comply with labeling requirements in their respective jurisdictions, which typically require disclosure of all flavorings in ingredient lists.
Key Studies
Publicly available scientific literature on this specific compound appears limited in the open-access domain. However, safety data may exist within regulatory submissions, manufacturer dossiers, or proprietary studies. The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association (FEMA) and other industry organizations maintain databases of flavoring compounds with documented safety assessments. Researchers and regulatory bodies evaluating this compound would typically reference studies on structurally similar acetate esters, metabolism of ester compounds, and cumulative exposure assessments across flavoring ingredients.