8.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
solvent · intermediate · flavoring agent · fragrance ingredient
Diethyl Malonate
Also known as: Diethyl malonate, Malonic acid diethyl ester, Diethyl malonat
Molecular Formula
C7H12O4
Molecular Weight
160.17 g/mol
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Diethyl Malonate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some caution is advised based on individual sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to esters
- you experience irritation or adverse reactions
- you are using on children without consultation
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C7H12O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 160.17 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -50.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 199.0°C |
| Solubility | 1 mL in 1.5 mL 60% alcohol (in ethanol) |
| Density | 1.06 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 1 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, sunscreens, hair conditioners. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Pharmaceutical
Topical formulations, oral medications. Consult healthcare providers for specific uses.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Use under guidance to avoid potential side effects.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Diethyl Malonate is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Diethyl Malonate can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation may cause respiratory irritation; use in well-ventilated areas.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and potential damage; avoid exposure.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of adverse effects due to sensitivity.
- pregnant — Limited data; caution advised during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- elderly — Generally safe but should be monitored.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but monitor for any adverse reactions. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Diethyl Malonate has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity in standard tests.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Draize test | No significant irritation observed | 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
Diethyl Malonate has been assessed for safety in various applications, showing low toxicity in standard tests.
- Low acute toxicity observed in animal studies.
- Generally safe for cosmetic and food use.
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Diethyl Malonate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Diethyl Malonate is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Diethyl Malonate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe as a food additive within specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Ingredients and Their Safety
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Diethyl Malonate is generally permitted for use across major jurisdictions with no significant restrictions. 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, Diethyl Malonate is safe for cosmetic use, but individuals with sensitive skin should exercise caution.
Yes, it is permitted as a food additive, but should be used within recommended limits.
Potential side effects may include skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T05:09:31.569479Z | — | 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.