Ethyl hexanoate

Ethyl hexanoate (CAS 123-66-0, EC 204-640-3) is an ester produced by the reaction of ethanol and hexanoic acid, also known by the trade designations ethyl caproate, ethyl hexoate, FEMA 2439, and NSC 8882. It carries no E-code designation and belongs to the short-chain fatty acid ester family.

In food and beverage formulation, it delivers characteristic fruity, pineapple-like top notes at concentrations typically below 50 ppm, functioning as a flavour modifier rather than a bulk ingredient. In personal care, it acts as an emollient by forming a thin occlusive film on skin, and in metalworking lubricant blends it reduces interfacial friction through its ester-based film-forming mechanism.

Ethyl hexanoate is available in food-grade quality meeting FCC specifications and in cosmetic-grade form compliant with REACH registration requirements. It is supplied as a liquid in standard drum and IBC packaging. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against their specific regulatory framework prior to procurement.