2-acetyl-4-isopropenyl pyridine

2-acetyl-4-isopropenyl pyridine, also known as 1-(4-prop-1-en-2-ylpyridin-2-yl)ethanone, is a heterocyclic ketone compound with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₁NO and molecular weight approximately 161.20 g/mol. The compound presents as a colorless to pale yellow liquid characterized by a distinctive green, grassy, sweet, and minty amber odor at a 1% solution in dipropylene glycol. It belongs to the pyridine family of compounds, often studied for their role in flavor and fragrance chemistry. This flavoring agent occurs naturally in sources such as spearmint oil (Scotch variety) and is used primarily for its ability to impart fresh, green, and mint characteristics in flavor formulations. Its controlled-vocabulary link in chemical databases aligns with its structural and compositional properties as a ketonic pyridine derivative.

2-acetyl-4-isopropenyl pyridine is biologically present in spearmint oil Scotches, contributing to the aromatic profile of this natural extract. Its primary applicability lies in flavoring, especially in imparting green grass and mint notes. It is recognized and evaluated by FEMA (Flavour and Extract Manufacturers Association, US) under the identifier number 4636, indicating its acceptance for use as a flavoring substance under regulated conditions. The compound's green and mint sensory characteristics make it suitable for inclusion in various flavor formulations where fresh and herbaceous profiles are desired, such as chewing gum and confectionery, aligning with typical flavor industry applications.

This compound displays physical and chemical properties conducive to its use in flavor applications. It has a boiling point range of 270 to 272°C at standard atmospheric pressure, which supports its relative stability under typical processing conditions. Its specific gravity ranges from 1.006 to 1.008 at 25°C, reflecting a density slightly higher than water. The refractive index falls between 1.518 and 1.52 at 20°C, providing data for optical characterization. A low vapor pressure of 0.007 mmHg at 25°C indicates low volatility, helping to retain sensory attributes in formulations. Solubility is moderate; it dissolves in alcohol and water at approximately 1506 mg/L at 25°C (estimated), but it is not soluble in pure water. The estimated log P of 2.38 suggests moderate lipophilicity, implying reasonable compatibility with oil-based and aqueous flavor systems. Its high flash point of 257°F (about 125°C) enhances safety during handling and formulation processing.

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Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
flavoring agents
Recommendation for 2-acetyl-4-isopropenyl pyridine usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.
Use levels for FEMA GRAS flavoring substances on which the FEMA Expert Panel based its judgments that the substances are generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
The Expert Panel also publishes separate extensive reviews of scientific information on all FEMA GRAS flavoring substances and can be found at FEMA Flavor Ingredient Library
publication number: 24
Click here to view publication 24
		average usual ppm	average maximum ppm
baked goods:		-	-
beverages(nonalcoholic):		-	-
beverages(alcoholic):		-	-
breakfast cereal:		-	-
cheese:		-	-
chewing gum:		0.10000	0.50000
condiments / relishes:		-	-
confectionery froastings:		0.05000	0.30000
egg products:		-	-
fats / oils:		-	-
fish products:		-	-
frozen dairy:		-	-
fruit ices:		-	-
gelatins / puddings:		-	-
granulated sugar:		-	-
gravies:		-	-
hard candy:		0.05000	0.30000
imitation dairy:		-	-
instant coffee / tea:		-	-
jams / jellies:		-	-
meat products:		-	-
milk products:		-	-
nut products:		-	-
other grains:		-	-
poultry:		-	-
processed fruits:		-	-
processed vegetables:		-	-
reconstituted vegetables:		-	-
seasonings / flavors:		-	-
snack foods:		-	-
soft candy:		0.10000	0.50000
soups:		-	-
sugar substitutes:		-	-
sweet sauces:		-	-

Safety references

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EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary :529344

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

1-(4-prop-1-en-2-ylpyridin-2-yl)ethanone

Chemidplus:0142896115