Daily and Edible Flavors Fema 3281 CAS NO.13925-00-3 2-Ethylpyrazine

2-Ethylpyrazine: A Foundational Note in Savory and Nutty Flavor Profiles

2-Ethylpyrazine (CAS 13925-00-3) is a fundamental heterocyclic compound belonging to the pyrazine family, which is extensively recognized for its contribution to the flavor and aroma of cooked and processed foods. This clear to light yellow liquid, with the molecular formula C₆H₈N₂ and a molecular weight of 108.14 g/mol, is a potent volatile compound that imparts characteristic roasted and nutty notes . It is a key substance used globally in the flavor and fragrance industries and is officially recognized for its safety and application by the FEMA (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association) with the number 3281 .

The organoleptic profile of 2-Ethylpyrazine is complex and highly desirable. At usage levels typically between 2-4 ppm, it delivers a distinct aroma often described as nutty, roasted, and reminiscent of coffee, cocoa, and peanut butter, with subtle undertones of buttery, musty, and woody characteristics . This makes it an indispensable tool for flavorists aiming to replicate the deep, warm, and savory notes associated with baking, roasting, and frying processes. The compound is naturally found in various food items, underscoring its role as an authentic flavor component .

The primary application of 2-Ethylpyrazine (CAS 13925-00-3) is as a flavoring agent in the food industry. It is widely utilized to create or enhance flavors in a diverse range of products, including baked goods, breakfast cereals, snack foods (such as corn chips and popcorn), dairy items, confectionery, and meat products . Its ability to convey both nutty and roasted nuances allows it to add depth and complexity to savory flavors, making it a versatile component in culinary formulations. According to the GB 2760 standard in China and international guidelines, it is permitted for use as a food flavoring substance, ensuring it meets global regulatory standards for consumption .

Beyond the food sector, 2-Ethylpyrazine also finds applications in the fragrance industry. Its warm, earthy, and nutty scent profile can add complexity to perfumes and personal care products, contributing to sophisticated and comforting base notes. In the realm of analytical chemistry, it serves as a crucial reference standard. Its availability as a high-purity standard (e.g., ≥99.0%) is essential for quality control, method development, and research applications, particularly in foodomics and metabolomics studies where accurate identification and quantification of volatile compounds are required . The compound is also listed by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) under the number 762, further validating its international acceptance as a safe flavoring agent .

The safety profile of 2-Ethylpyrazine has been well-documented. It is classified for industrial and flavor use with appropriate hazard warnings (such as flammability and irritancy), and it is essential to handle it with standard safety practices, including the use of protective equipment and adequate ventilation . For research and development purposes, it is also recognized as a human endogenous metabolite, which adds another dimension to its biological relevance . Whether used to perfect the taste of a snack, formulate a new fragrance, or as a standard in a laboratory, 2-Ethylpyrazine (FEMA 3281) remains a cornerstone compound for achieving authentic and high-impact roasted and nutty profiles.