7.0
ISS Score
A- — Good — low to minimal hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · emollient
Ethyl Heptanoate
Also known as: ethyl caprylate, heptylic acid ethyl ester
Molecular Formula
C9H18O2
Molecular Weight
158.24 g/mol
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Ethyl Heptanoate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though individual sensitivities may vary.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in low concentrations in cosmetic formulations
- Ingested as part of food flavoring within regulatory limits
- Applied to intact skin without prior irritation
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are using other products containing similar esters
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to esters
- You experience irritation or adverse reactions
- You are using it in high concentrations without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C9H18O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 158.24 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -66.1°C |
| Boiling Point | 188.0°C |
| Solubility | 1ml in 3ml 70% ethanol (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.9 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, hair conditioners. Generally safe in cosmetic products when used as directed.
Food
Flavoring agents, beverages, confectionery. Safe for consumption within established limits.
Pharmaceutical
Topical formulations, medicated creams. Use in pharmaceuticals is regulated for safety.
Supplement
Flavoring in dietary supplements. Generally safe when used as a flavoring agent.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Ethyl Heptanoate is generally well tolerated on the skin, with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Ingestion of Ethyl Heptanoate is typically safe in small amounts, but excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure to Ethyl Heptanoate is generally low risk, but high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Contact with eyes may cause irritation; flushing with water is recommended if exposure occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposures may lead to adverse effects.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
- elderly — Generally safe, but individual sensitivities should be monitored.
- breastfeeding — Considered low risk, but caution is advised.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated; however, individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Limited data on transfer through breast milk; generally considered safe. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals may have varying sensitivities. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Ethyl Heptanoate is an ester used in various applications, generally recognized as safe in regulated amounts.
| 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 | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | non-sensitizing | Human patch 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
Ethyl Heptanoate is an ester used in various applications, generally recognized as safe in regulated amounts.
- Used in cosmetics and food flavoring.
- Safety assessments indicate low toxicity.
- Regulatory bodies monitor its use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Ethyl Heptanoate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Ethyl Heptanoate is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Ethyl Heptanoate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Considered safe for use as a food flavoring substance.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Ethyl Heptanoate is permitted for use in food products.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Ethyl Heptanoate is 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, Ethyl Heptanoate is safe for skin use in cosmetics, but patch testing is recommended.
Yes, it is permitted as a food flavoring, but always check for individual allergies.
Side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T05:33:36.240275Z | — | 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.