67.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · solvent · emollient · flavoring agent
BUTANOIC ACID, 1,1-DIMETHYL-2-PHENYLETHYL ESTER
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and food, though individual sensitivities may vary.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in recommended concentrations
- Not combined with known irritants
- Used by individuals without allergies to esters
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using in conjunction with other active ingredients
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to butanoic acid or similar compounds
- Using on broken or irritated skin
- Ingesting in large amounts without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, scented lotions, hair conditioners. Generally safe for topical use, but patch test recommended.
Food
Flavoring agents, food preservatives. Considered safe in food applications within regulatory limits.
Pharmaceutical
Topical medications, oral formulations. Use under medical supervision, especially in sensitive populations.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Consult healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to butanoic acid ester is generally low risk for skin contact.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion may pose moderate risks; effects depend on dosage and individual sensitivity.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation risks are typically low to moderate, depending on concentration and exposure duration.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact may cause irritation; moderate risk based on exposure level.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to ingredients; potential for adverse effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated; monitor for reactions.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults; monitor for any adverse reactions. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity in infants and children; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated; monitor for any unusual reactions. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Butanoic acid, 1,1-dimethyl-2-phenylethyl ester is generally safe for cosmetic and food use, though caution is advised.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 5000 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | Not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Butanoic acid, 1,1-dimethyl-2-phenylethyl ester is generally safe for cosmetic and food use, though caution is advised.
- Used in various cosmetic and food products
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Regulatory assessments support its safety
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Butanoic Acid Esters
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Butanoic Acid
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food applications.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted as a food additive under specified conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Generally permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe for skin use, though patch testing is recommended for sensitive individuals.
Typically safe in food products, but always check for individual allergies.
Some individuals may experience irritation; consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:30:04.012195Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.