7.0
ISS Score
A- — Good — low to minimal hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · flavoring agent · solvent · plasticizer
Isoamyl Acetate
Also known as: isoamyl ethanoate, 2-methylbutyl acetate, 2-methylbutanoic acid, ethyl ester
Molecular Formula
C7H14O2
Molecular Weight
130.18 g/mol
Category
ester
Bottom Line: Isoamyl acetate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience 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 or allergies
- using in large quantities
- exposed to high temperatures
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have a known allergy to esters
- using near eyes or mucous membranes
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C7H14O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 130.18 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -109.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 288.0°C |
| Solubility | 0.3% |
| Log P | 2 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetics when used as directed.
Food
Flavoring agents, confectionery. Approved for use in food products at regulated levels.
Pharmaceutical
Excipients, flavoring agents. Used in pharmaceuticals, typically safe in low doses.
Household
Cleaning products, air fresheners. Safe for household use; ensure good ventilation.
Supplement
Flavoring agents. Generally recognized as safe in dietary supplements.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Isoamyl Acetate is generally well tolerated on the skin, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Isoamyl Acetate can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of Isoamyl Acetate vapors may cause mild respiratory irritation in some individuals.
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 well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivity.
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 sensitivity. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Isoamyl acetate is widely used in food and cosmetics, with low toxicity and minimal health risks.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Rabbit - Dermal application | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization Test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
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
Isoamyl acetate is widely used in food and cosmetics, with low toxicity and minimal health risks.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
- May cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Isoamyl Acetate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Isoamyl Acetate
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food flavoring.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted for use in food products.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Isoamyl acetate is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Isoamyl acetate is generally safe for skin use, but some may experience irritation.
Yes, isoamyl acetate is permitted as a flavoring agent in food products.
Isoamyl acetate has no significant restrictions in major markets.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:19:46.203858Z | — | 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.