2-methylbutyric acid

2-Methylbutyric acid (CAS 116-53-0), also known by its FEMA 2695 designation, is a short-chain branched organic acid used primarily as a flavoring agent and fragrance ingredient. It delivers a characteristic pungent, cheesy, and fruity odor profile that underpins its demand in both food and personal care formulations. In food and beverage manufacturing, it functions as a flavor compound.

It contributes to dairy, fruit, and savory taste profiles in products such as cheese analogs, snack seasonings, and processed meat flavors. Fragrance formulators incorporate it into personal care products. These include soaps, shampoos, and fine fragrances where its sharp, fermented note adds depth to complex scent compositions. At controlled concentrations, it also acts as a pH modifier and mild preservative.

In cosmetic formulations, its acidic buffering supports product stability. Flavor houses source it as a building block for synthesizing more complex ester-based aroma chemicals for various industries. The product is supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is available in food-grade quality meeting FEMA and FCC standards, as well as technical grade for industrial and fragrance applications.

Packaging typically ranges from small drums to bulk quantities depending on application volume. This ensures flexibility for both small-scale specialty labs and large-scale manufacturing facilities.