amyl acetate
amyl acetate

Amyl acetate (pear or banana)

Common names: Amyl acetate, Pentyl acetate, Pear oil, Essences de Poire (French brand name), Flavouring agent 1018 (European food additive code).
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KIDSADVISORY SAFETY RATING
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Safe
Published by Jordana Tobelem, RD, LDN — Last Updated on Apr 16, 2025
Medically reviewed by Dr. William Lin, MD
Amyl acetate, an organic ester with a distinctive fruity aroma reminiscent of bananas and apples, is extensively utilized in the food industry as a flavoring agent to enhance the taste of various products.[1] Its applications include imparting flavor to baked goods, candies, and beverages, owing to its ability to mimic natural fruit essences.[2] Additionally, amyl acetate serves as a solvent in the production of penicillin and in the formulation of synthetic flavors.[3]
Despite its widespread use, amyl acetate is generally recognized as safe when used appropriately; however, exposure to high concentrations, particularly in occupational settings, may lead to health concerns such as skin and respiratory irritation.[4] Proper handling and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to mitigate potential risks associated with its use.[4] Overall, when utilized within regulated limits, amyl acetate remains a valuable component in the food industry for its flavoring properties.[5]

Safety Overview

Regulatory Bodies

FDA (US)
Amyl acetate is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) when used as a flavoring agent in food products. This classification indicates that it does not require pre-market approval when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices (GMP).[6]
Health Canada
Health Canada does not classify amyl acetate as a novel food ingredient, meaning it is considered safe within existing food regulations. The agency follows international safety standards and does not impose additional restrictions on its use as a flavoring agent.[7]
EFSA (Europe)
EFSA has evaluated amyl acetate and determined that it does not pose safety concerns at established exposure levels in food products. It is classified under the Flavouring Group Evaluation (FGE.03), confirming its safety when metabolized in the body.[8]
WHO (World Health Organization)
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has set specifications for identity and purity to ensure the safe use of amyl acetate in food applications. However, long-term toxicity data remain limited, and JECFA has recommended adherence to regulated limits to minimize potential risks.[9]

FDA GRAS

U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)
Current Status
Classified

EWG Rating

Environmental Working Group
  • EWG Rating: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) assigns amyl acetate a moderate hazard rating, primarily due to concerns about allergies and immunotoxicity.[10]
  • Level of Caution: While generally considered safe, individuals with sensitive skin or respiratory conditions should exercise caution, as amyl acetate may cause irritation upon exposure.[10]
  • Possible Health Risks: Potential health risks associated with amyl acetate include skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory discomfort when inhaled in significant amounts.[10]
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More about Amyl acetate (pear or banana)

  • Baked Goods: Cakes, Pastries, Cookies
  • Confectionery: Hard Candies, Chewing Gum, Fruit-Flavored Gels
  • Beverages: Flavored Alcoholic Drinks, Soft Drinks, Fruit Juices

Historical Use
Amyl acetate, an organic ester with a characteristic fruity odor, has been utilized since the 19th century as a flavoring agent in the food industry, imparting banana and pear-like flavors to various products. Beyond its culinary applications, it has also served as a solvent in the production of penicillin and in the formulation of paints and lacquers.[11]
Current Exposure
Today, consumer exposure to amyl acetate primarily occurs through its presence in flavored foods and beverages, as well as in certain cosmetic products like nail polish and removers. While generally recognized as safe when used appropriately, individuals may encounter it through inhalation or skin contact, especially in occupational settings where it is used as a solvent.[12]

Respiratory Irritation
Inhalation of amyl acetate vapors can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.[13]
Central Nervous System Depression
Exposure to high concentrations may result in central nervous system depression, manifesting as headaches, dizziness, and even unconsciousness.[13]
Skin Irritation
Prolonged or repeated skin contact can cause irritation, dryness, and cracking.[13]
Liver Toxicity
Chronic exposure has been associated with potential liver damage, as evidenced by animal studies indicating hepatotoxic effects.[14]

Toxicological Studies
Acute exposure to amyl acetate has been shown to cause central nervous system depression, with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and somnolence observed in both human and animal studies. Inhalation of high concentrations, specifically around 952 ppm for 30 minutes, has been associated with somnolence in humans.[15]
Long-Term Safety
Chronic exposure to amyl acetate may lead to liver and kidney damage, as well as skin irritation. Prolonged or repeated contact can cause drying and cracking of the skin, and repeated exposure may affect the liver, kidneys, and brain.[14]

High-Risk Groups
Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, may be more susceptible to the irritant effects of amyl acetate, particularly in occupational settings with elevated airborne concentrations.[15] Additionally, workers in industries utilizing amyl acetate, like manufacturing and painting, are at increased risk due to prolonged exposure.[1footnote id=15]
Health Impacts
Exposure to amyl acetate can lead to respiratory irritation, headaches, and central nervous system depression; vulnerable populations may experience exacerbated symptoms even at lower exposure levels.[13] Prolonged exposure in sensitive individuals may also result in chronic respiratory issues and skin sensitization.[13]

Recommended Intake
The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for amyl acetate at 0-3 mg per kilogram of body weight, expressed as isoamyl alcohol. This assessment indicates no safety concern at current levels of intake when used as a flavoring agent.[8]

General Safety Level
Amyl acetate is widely used as a flavoring agent and solvent, with a low incidence of allergic reactions reported in the general population. Comprehensive safety assessments have deemed it safe for use in various consumer products, including cosmetics and food items.[5]
Sensitive Individuals
While amyl acetate is generally considered safe, individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or sensitivities may experience mild irritation upon exposure. It is advisable for such individuals to perform a patch test or consult with a healthcare professional before using products containing amyl acetate.[10]

FAQ

Is amyl acetate toxic?

Amyl acetate is generally considered low in toxicity but can cause irritation and dizziness if inhaled in high concentrations.

What are the precautions for isoamyl acetate?

Use isoamyl acetate in a well-ventilated area, avoid prolonged exposure, and wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling.

Do bananas contain isoamyl acetate?

Yes, bananas naturally contain isoamyl acetate, which contributes to their characteristic fruity aroma.

References

  1. New Jersey Department of Health n.d. sec-Amyl Acetate Hazard Summary Available at: https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1643.pdf ↩︎
  2. Dow Inc. n.d. Primary Amyl Acetate Mixed Isomers Available at: https://www.dow.com/en-us/pdp.primary-amyl-acetate-mixed-isomers.85021z.html ↩︎
  3. IndustryARC 2022 Amyl Acetate Food Grade Market Size Report 2022-2027 Available at: https://www.industryarc.com/Report/17824/amyl-acetate-food-grade-market.html ↩︎
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC n.d. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards - n-Amyl acetate Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0031.html ↩︎
  5. Cosmetic Ingredient Review 2020 Safety Assessment of Amyl Acetate and Isoamyl Acetate as Used in Cosmetics Available at: https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/RR_Amyl%20Acetate.pdf ↩︎
  6. US Food and Drug Administration FDA n.d. Substances Added to Food formerly EAFUS - Isoamyl Acetate Available at: https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FoodSubstances&id=ISOAMYLACETATE ↩︎
  7. Health Canada 2023 List of non-novel determinations for food and food ingredients Available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/genetically-modified-foods-other-novel-foods/requesting-novelty-determination/list-non-novel-determinations.html ↩︎
  8. European Food Safety Authority EFSA 2012 Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of branched-chain primary aliphatic alcohols/aldehydes/acids acetals and esters with esters containing branched-chain alcohols and acetals containing branched-chain aldehydes chemical group 2 when used as flavourings for all animal species EFSA Journal 10(10) 2927 Available at: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2927 ↩︎
  9. World Health Organization WHO 1996 Amyl acetate Available at: https://apps.who.int/food-additives-contaminants-jecfa-database/Home/Chemical/2783 ↩︎
  10. Environmental Working Group EWG n.d. Amyl Acetate Available at: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/700397-AMYL_ACETATE/ ↩︎
  11. Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA 2003 n-Amyl Acetate - Isoamyl Acetate Available at: https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/methods/osha-pv2142.pdf ↩︎
  12. Cosmetics Info n.d. Amyl Acetate Available at: https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/amyl-acetate/ ↩︎
  13. New Jersey Department of Health n.d. n-Amyl Acetate Hazard Summary Available at: https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1321.pdf ↩︎
  14. New Jersey Department of Health n.d. sec-Amyl Acetate Hazard Summary Available at: https://www.nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/1643.pdf ↩︎
  15. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC 2014 n-Amyl acetate - IDLH Documentation Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/idlh/628637.html ↩︎

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