2-Methylbutyric Acid (CAS 116-53-0)| Fruity, Cheesy, Sweet Aroma

This compound is naturally occurring in various fruits such as apples, apricots, and strawberries, as well as in cocoa and certain wines. Consequently, 2-Methylbutyric Acid is extensively used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry.
It is a key ingredient for formulating:

Fruity Flavors: Enhancing the taste of soft drinks, candies, and ice creams.

Savory Notes: Providing the characteristic "cheesy" or "buttery" notes in processed foods and baked goods.

Fragrances: Adding depth and nuance to industrial perfumes and essential oil blends.

Beyond its sensory applications, 2-Methylbutyric Acid serves as a crucial intermediate in organic synthesis. It is frequently utilized in the production of esters, which are widely used as solvents and plasticizers. Whether you require it for flavor compounding or as a reagent for chemical synthesis, our product meets rigorous purity standards (≥98%).

2-Methylbutyric Acid (CAS: 116-53-0) , also known as 2-Methylbutanoic Acid or Methylethylacetic Acid, is a high-purity branched-chain carboxylic acid widely recognized for its distinctive and versatile olfactory profile. This naturally occurring compound is found in various fruits, including apples, strawberries, and apricots, as well as in dairy products, coffee, and fermented foods. It exhibits a complex aroma characterized by sweet, fruity, and cheesy notes, with undertones reminiscent of apple, strawberry, pineapple, and blue cheese. These sensory properties make it an indispensable ingredient in the development of authentic fruit flavors, dairy profiles, and complex fragrance compositions.

With a molecular formula of C₅H₁₀O₂, 2-Methylbutyric Acid presents as a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature, characterized by a sharp, pungent odor when concentrated but pleasant, fruity characteristics when diluted. The compound has a molecular weight of 102.13 g/mol, a boiling point of approximately 176°C, and demonstrates good solubility in ethanol, propylene glycol, and most organic solvents, with limited solubility in water. It is manufactured under strict quality control standards to ensure consistent purity, typically exceeding 99%, with rigorous batch-to-batch uniformity maintained throughout production. Both natural and synthetic grades are available to meet diverse customer requirements.

In flavor applications, 2-Methylbutyric Acid is extensively utilized to create authentic fruit profiles, particularly apple, strawberry, pineapple, and tropical fruit flavors. Its sweet, slightly waxy character enhances the naturalness of fruit formulations, while its distinctive cheesy undertones contribute to dairy profiles such as blue cheese, cheddar, butter, and cream. The compound is also employed in beverage applications, where it adds depth and complexity to fruit juices, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits. In confectionery and bakery products, it provides a rich, fruity character that complements sweet goods, fruit fillings, caramel, and dessert-type formulations. Additionally, it finds use in savory applications, particularly in cheese-flavored snacks, sauces, and ready meals.

Beyond the flavor industry, 2-Methylbutyric Acid serves as a valuable intermediate in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Its branched-chain structure makes it a useful building block for the preparation of various specialty chemicals, including esters used in flavor and fragrance applications. The methylbutyrate esters derived from this acid are highly prized for their intense fruity aromas, including ethyl 2-methylbutyrate (apple, strawberry), methyl 2-methylbutyrate (apple, pineapple), and other derivatives widely used in the flavor industry.

In fragrance compositions, 2-Methylbutyric Acid contributes sweet, fruity, and slightly animalic accords that enhance fruity-floral, chypre, and gourmand-type perfumes, adding warmth and complexity to the overall composition. Its unique olfactory profile allows perfumers to create realistic fruit notes and add depth to complex fragrance structures.