Soybean oil methyl ester (CAS 67784-80-9) — Green Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Green · Sweet

Soybean oil methyl ester

CAS 67784-80-9

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Soybean oil methyl ester?

Soybean oil methyl ester is a synthetic fragrance ingredient derived from soybean oil. It’s commonly used in candles, soaps, and personal care products for its mild, slightly fatty odor. This ingredient serves as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived fragrance carriers, helping create stable, long-lasting scents in various consumer goods.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Widely used in consumer products
✓ Biodegradable and plant-derived
CAS
67784-80-9
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Green · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Soybean oil methyl ester Smell Like?

Soybean oil methyl ester presents a subtle, clean aroma with soft fatty undertones reminiscent of fresh soybean oil. Its odor is mild and unobtrusive, serving primarily as a neutral carrier rather than a dominant scent. The profile lacks sharp edges, offering just a whisper of green, vegetal character that blends seamlessly into formulations without competing with other fragrance ingredients.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Soybean oil methyl ester is produced through transesterification of soybean triglycerides with methanol. This process yields fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) with varying carbon chain lengths. The material serves primarily as a solvent and carrier in fragrance applications rather than as an odor-active ingredient. Its composition varies depending on the source soybean oil and processing methods.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low
Blending
Neutral
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Candles5-15%Up to 30%Acts as fragrance solvent
Soaps2-8%Up to 15%Helps scent retention

Classic Accords

Tip: Use as a cost-effective, sustainable solvent for fragrance oils in various applications.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Coconut oil methyl ester CAS 61788-59-8

Offers similar solvent properties with slightly different viscosity and solubility characteristics.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA.

RIFM Assessment

Considered safe for current usage levels in fragrance applications.

Sustainability

As a bio-based material, soybean oil methyl ester offers environmental advantages over petroleum-derived solvents. Its production supports agricultural economies and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. However, sustainability depends on responsible soybean farming practices to avoid deforestation and habitat loss associated with large-scale monoculture.

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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