Benzoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester (CAS 89-71-4) — Sweet Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
Benzoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester
CAS 89-71-4
What Is Benzoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester?
Methyl 2-methylbenzoate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly found in perfumes and flavored products. It contributes a fruity, floral nuance reminiscent of ylang-ylang and strawberries. This ester is valued for its ability to enhance floral bouquets and add a subtle sweetness without overpowering other notes.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Benzoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester Smell Like?
Methyl 2-methylbenzoate opens with a bright, fruity burst reminiscent of ripe strawberries dipped in cream. As it evolves, the floral heart emerges – a delicate ylang-ylang character with hints of mimosa pollen. The dry-down reveals a soft, powdery muskiness that lingers close to the skin. Throughout its evolution, it maintains a candied sweetness like crystallized flower petals, making it particularly useful for enhancing floral compositions without becoming cloying.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a subtle modifier in the floral bouquet, adding candied nuances to the ylang-ylang and jasmine notes while preventing the aldehydes from becoming too sharp.
Provides a strawberry-like fruity facet to the chypre structure, bridging the gap between the citrus top notes and mossy base.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Methyl 2-methylbenzoate is an aromatic ester formed by the esterification of 2-methylbenzoic acid with methanol. As a synthetic material, it’s typically produced through acid-catalyzed Fischer esterification. The methyl group ortho to the ester functionality creates steric hindrance that influences both its reactivity and odor characteristics. While not found in significant quantities in nature, related methyl benzoates occur in various essential oils.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 218-220 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.082 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Floral modifier |
| Soap | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Adds fruity nuance |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts to lift floral compositions and add dimensionality to fruity notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For a cleaner floral effect without the fruity nuances, though less tenacious.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions currently apply.
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe at current usage levels based on RIFM evaluation.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, methyl 2-methylbenzoate has minimal environmental impact in production. Its efficient synthesis from readily available precursors makes it a sustainable choice compared to some natural alternatives that require extensive plant cultivation.
Explore Benzoic acid, 2-methyl-, methyl ester
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
Browse on iHerb →Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
References
- Burdock, G.A. (2010). Fenaroli’s Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. CRC Press. ISBN 9781420090772
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data error
![1,5-Dimethylbicyclo[3.2.1]octan-8-one-oxime (CAS 75147-23-8) — Woody Middle to base Note Fragrance Ingredient](https://thegoodscents.company/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/1-5-dimethylbicyclo-3-2-1-octan-8-one-oxime-1-768x439.webp)
