Food safety and quality: details

Flavouring	Methyl levulinate
Synonym(s)	4-Oxopentanoic acid methyl ester;Pentanoic acid, 4-oxo-, methyl ester;Methyl levulate;Methyl 4-oxovalerate;Methyl beta-acetylpropionate;Levulinic acid, methyl ester;Methyl 4-oxopentanoate
Latest JECFA evaluation	2010 (Session 73)
Status of specification	Full
Information required
Chemical name	methyl 4-oxopentanoate
JECFA number	1970
CAS number	624-45-3
FEMA number	4478
COE number
FLAVIS number
Molecular weight	130.14
Chemical formula	C6H10O3
Physical form/odour	Clear colourless liquid; Mild carmellic aroma
Solubility	Sparingly soluble in water
Solubility in ethanol	Soluble
Boiling point (°C)	194-196°
Assay min %	98%
Acid value max	1
Refractive index	1.419-1.425
Specific gravity	1.049-1.055 (20°)
Other requirements
ID Test	IR MS
Spectrum