9.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
solvent · flavoring agent · fragrance ingredient · extraction solvent
Ethyl Acetate
Also known as: Acetic acid ethyl ester, Ethyl ethanoate, Acetic ether
Molecular Formula
C4H8O2
Molecular Weight
88.11 g/mol
Category
solvent
Bottom Line: Ethyl acetate is generally considered safe for use in various applications, though some caution is advised based on individual sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in well-ventilated areas
- concentration is within recommended limits
- not applied to broken skin
- used in accordance with product guidelines
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- using in large quantities
- exposed to high temperatures
- using in poorly ventilated spaces
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you have a history of respiratory issues
- you are allergic to esters
- using near open flames or heat sources
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C4H8O2 |
| Molecular Weight | 88.11 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -117.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 171.0°C |
| Solubility | (77 °F): 10% |
| Density | 0.9003 g/cm³ |
| Log P | 0.7 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Nail polish remover, fragrance, hair sprays. Use in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation risks.
Food
Flavoring agents, food additives. Generally recognized as safe when used in food applications.
Pharmaceutical
Excipients, solvents for drug formulation. Ensure proper handling to avoid inhalation or skin contact.
Household
Cleaning agents, adhesives. Keep away from children and use as directed.
Supplement
Excipients in tablets. Consult with a healthcare provider if unsure about use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Ethyl acetate is generally well tolerated on the skin but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of ethyl acetate can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and other adverse effects.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Moderate
Inhalation of ethyl acetate vapors may cause respiratory irritation and central nervous system effects.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Contact with eyes can 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.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with proper use.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated but monitor for sensitivity.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but prolonged exposure may lead to irritation. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on transfer through breast milk; use caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but may have increased sensitivity. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Ethyl acetate is widely used as a solvent with a favorable safety profile, though it may cause irritation in some individuals.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 5620 mg/kg | Rat - Oral | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | Moderate irritant | Rabbit - Dermal | Irritating to skin | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | Not sensitizing | Guinea Pig - Maximization Test | Non-sensitizing | 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
Ethyl acetate is widely used as a solvent with a favorable safety profile, though it may cause irritation in some individuals.
- Commonly used in cosmetics and food products.
- Generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies.
- May cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Ethyl Acetate
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Ethyl acetate is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 25%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Ethyl Acetate
Year: 2018
Conclusion: Ethyl acetate is safe for use in food at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additives Permitted for Direct Addition to Food for Human Consumption
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Ethyl acetate is permitted as a food additive.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Ethyl acetate is permitted for use in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals 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
Ethyl acetate is generally safe for skin use, but it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Yes, ethyl acetate is permitted as a food additive and is considered safe when used appropriately.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for advice.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T05:27:34.564008Z | — | 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.