Ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5), also known as ethyl 3-(methylthio)propionate, 3-(methylthio)propanoic acid ethyl ester, or pineapple ethyl ester, is a sulfur-containing ester with the molecular formula C₆H₁₂O₂S and a molecular weight of 148.22 g/mol. Its molecular structure consists of an ethyl ester of 3-(methylthio)propionic acid, featuring both an ester group and a methyl sulfide (thioether) moiety. This unique combination of functional groups imparts the compound with a highly distinctive and potent sensory profile—characterized by fruity, pineapple-like, tropical, and sulfurous notes—that has made it a coveted ingredient in the flavor and fragrance industries. As a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a boiling point of 192–197°C and a density of approximately 1.032 g/mL, this compound belongs to the class of volatile sulfur compounds that contribute significantly to the aroma of a variety of fruits and food products. Market demand is closely tied to the global flavor and fragrance industry’s pursuit of authentic, natural-tasting fruit nuances and the growing consumer preference for complex, exotic flavor profiles. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial chain position, this article systematically analyzes the international market dynamics of ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate, focusing on core application scenarios, competitive landscape, regional differences, regulatory trends, and future outlook, providing strategic references for industry participants.
Core Application Fields and Demand
Market demand for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5) is highly concentrated in two primary areas: the flavor industry (approximately 85–90% of global consumption) and the fragrance industry (approximately 10–15%). Its potent, characteristic aroma and versatility as a flavoring agent serve as the core drivers of sustained consumption growth.
In the flavor industry, ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is a highly valued ingredient for creating and enhancing pineapple, tropical fruit, and exotic flavor compositions. It is a key aroma-contributing compound naturally found in a range of foods, including pineapple, melon, passion fruit, Parmesan cheese, beer, and wine. Its sensory perception is highly concentration-dependent: at low concentrations, it imparts a desirable fruity and sweet character, while at higher concentrations, its sulfurous notes become more pronounced. The compound’s taste is described as sulfuraceous, with notes of onion, garlic, pineapple, and vegetable at a concentration of 30 ppm. Its aroma descriptors include fruity, pineapple, sulfurous, metallic, ripe, pulpy, and tomato. It is used in a wide variety of food applications, including baked goods and soft confectionery (at approximately 2 ppm), desserts and beverages (at approximately 1 ppm), fruit beverages, tropical juice blends, processed foods, dairy products, and savory applications such as soups, sauces, and meat-flavored products. As a flavoring agent or adjuvant, it is recognized by the FDA (EAFUS) and carries FEMA No. 3343.
In the fragrance industry, ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly found in fruity and tropical perfumes. It imparts a pineapple-like scent with a sweet, juicy character, providing realistic fruit nuances without relying on natural extracts, which makes fragrances more consistent and sustainable. The top note is intensely sweet and slightly green, evolving into a softer, candy-like heart, with a dry-down that reveals a subtle sulfurous nuance that adds depth without overpowering. Its potent, fruity aroma is prized in perfumery for its ability to create hyper-realistic pineapple and tropical accords. In fine fragrances, it is typically used at 0.5–2% (up to 5%), while in functional fragrances such as shampoos and body washes, it is used at 0.1–0.5% (up to 1%). The compound’s sulfur atom is critical to its distinctive tropical character, while the ethyl group enhances its volatility and diffusion. It is also used in tropical compositions and as a fruity aroma ingredient in perfumes.
Major Market Participants
The global supply system for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5) features a pattern of “specialty flavor and fragrance chemical manufacturers, large-scale Chinese producers, and regional suppliers serving distinct market segments.”
In the global high-purity and specialty segment, key players include established international companies such as Penta Manufacturing Company (based in North America), Advanced Biotech, and Treatt Products. These companies supply high-quality, food-grade, and fragrance-grade material that meets stringent regulatory standards, often carrying certifications such as EU Compliant, FDA Compliant, Halal, Kosher, and Prop 65 Compliant. Sigma-Aldrich (Merck) also offers the compound at ≥99% purity, with FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) and FG (Flavor Grade) designations. Shanghai Pu-Jie Fragrance Co. is another player focused on the selling, production, and R&D of aroma chemicals for the food and cosmetic industries.
In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as a dominant force in global supply. China serves as a major production hub for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate, with numerous chemical companies operating production facilities and leveraging cost advantages, established supply chains, and integrated manufacturing capabilities to serve both domestic and international markets. These producers typically offer the compound at ≥98% purity, catering to food-grade flavoring applications. The competitive landscape in China is characterized by a large number of regional manufacturers serving the domestic and export markets with competitive pricing and flexible packaging options.
Regional Market Dynamics
The global ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and emerging markets.
The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate, with China hosting numerous manufacturers and suppliers. The region’s competitive advantages include lower production costs, established chemical infrastructure, and proximity to rapidly growing end-use industries, particularly in the food processing and beverage sectors. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing middle class and increasing demand for processed and flavored foods in China, India, and Southeast Asia continue to drive regional consumption growth.
North America remains a key market for high-purity and food-grade ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate, driven by demand from the flavor, fragrance, and food processing industries. The United States hosts major suppliers such as Penta Manufacturing Company and Advanced Biotech, which serve the research, development, and industrial markets with products meeting stringent quality specifications. The region’s well-established regulatory framework, including FDA oversight and GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, supports demand for high-grade flavoring ingredients.
Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements and a strong focus on quality and safety in food and fragrance applications. The compound is listed with JECFA (No. 0476) and carries an EU FL-No. 12.053, with JECFA status indicating “Evaluated – No safety concern”. EFSA has indicated “No need for evaluation”. European manufacturers and distributors supply food-grade and fragrance-grade material to the region’s flavor, fragrance, and food processing industries, with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and documentation.
Latin America and other regions represent growing markets, with demand driven by expanding food processing industries and increasing consumer demand for flavored products.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
As a flavoring substance and fragrance ingredient, ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.
In the United States, ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is listed in the FDA’s EAFUS (Everything Added to Food in the United States) database as a flavoring agent or adjuvant with FEMA No. 3343. It holds FEMA GRAS status (GRAS List 6). The compound is also subject to FDA oversight for food flavoring applications and must comply with relevant regulations for synthetic flavoring substances and adjuvants.
In the European Union, the compound is listed with JECFA (No. 0476) and carries an EU FL-No. 12.053. JECFA status indicates “Evaluated – No safety concern”. EFSA has indicated “No need for evaluation”. The compound has an EINECS number of 236-370-7. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive safety data sheets (SDS) and comply with REACH documentation requirements for import and use.
The Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) has completed a fragrance ingredient safety assessment for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate. Data from read-across analog methyl 3-methylthiopropionate (CAS # 13532-18-8) indicate that ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is not expected to be genotoxic. The compound is not restricted by IFRA (International Fragrance Association) and is considered safe for use in all categories. However, the IFRA Environmental Standards indicate that the compound is not considered persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT).
GHS classification and handling: Ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is a combustible liquid with a flash point of approximately 78–81°C. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated place away from heat and ignition sources. The compound is practically insoluble in water but soluble in alcohol. Standard industrial hygiene practices should be followed during handling, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment.
For international transport, proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and other transport regulations.
Future Outlook
The market outlook for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively niche specialty chemical within the broader flavor and fragrance market, its unique sensory properties and versatility position it for steady growth in the coming years.
Key growth drivers include:
- Expansion of the global flavor market: The growing global demand for natural and natural-identical flavors, driven by the increasing popularity of processed foods, beverages, snacks, and convenience meals, supports demand for distinctive flavoring compounds like ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate.
- Growth in the tropical fruit flavor segment: The rising global popularity of tropical flavors—including pineapple, passion fruit, mango, and exotic fruit blends—in food, beverages, and confectionery drives demand for key aroma compounds.
- Increasing demand for authentic fruit nuances: As consumers seek more authentic, natural-tasting food and beverage products, the use of naturally occurring flavor compounds—including those found in pineapple, melon, and passion fruit—continues to grow.
- Expansion of the fragrance industry: The compound’s use in fine fragrances and functional fragrances (shampoos, body washes, etc.) for tropical and fruity accords supports steady demand from the personal care and cosmetics sectors.
- Innovation in savory flavor applications: The compound’s sulfurous, onion, garlic, and vegetable notes make it valuable for savory flavor formulations, including soups, sauces, and meat-flavored products.
Challenges and considerations:
- Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent food safety and chemical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.
- Sensory potency: The compound’s high potency and distinctive sulfurous character require careful formulation control; excessive use can result in off-flavors or overpowering notes.
- Competition from alternatives: The market faces competition from other esters and furanones that contribute to pineapple and tropical fruit aromas, such as ethyl hexanoate, ethyl 2-methylbutanoate, and HDMF (Furaneol®).
- Limited scale: As a relatively niche compound, the market for ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate is smaller than that of commodity flavor chemicals, which may limit investment in large-scale production capacity.
To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality, sensory consistency, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for formulation optimization will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)
As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the flavor, fragrance, food, and specialty chemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality Ethyl 3-Methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for businesses seeking this distinctive sulfur-containing ester.
1. Technical Advantages
Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate products. The production process incorporates advanced esterification and purification technologies, enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥98% (GC) and ≥99% (GC, food grade) to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control minimizes impurities and ensures batch-to-batch sensory consistency, providing customers with reliable performance in their flavor and fragrance formulations.
Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data, sensory evaluation results, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate meets the stringent requirements of food, flavor, fragrance, and industrial applications.
2. Product Advantages
High Purity and Sensory Consistency
XinChem offers ethyl 3-methylthiopropionate in multiple purity grades: Food Grade with purity ≥99% (GC) and Industrial Grade with purity ≥98% (GC). The product’s high purity and consistent sensory profile minimize the risk of off-notes and batch-to-batch variability, making it suitable for demanding applications in fine fragrances, premium food flavorings, and complex flavor formulations.
Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid
- Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂S
- Molecular Weight: 148.22 g/mol
- Assay (GC): ≥98% (Industrial) / ≥99% (Food Grade)
- Boiling Point: 192–197°C
- Density: 1.030–1.035 g/mL at 25°C
- Refractive Index: 1.457–1.463 at 20°C
- Water Content (KF): ≤0.2%
- Color (APHA): ≤50
- Odor: Fruity, pineapple, tropical, with sulfurous nuances
Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities to industrial-scale drums and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation. Recommended storage conditions include storage in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from heat and ignition sources, in tightly closed containers.
3. Application Fields
As a versatile sulfur-containing ester, Ethyl 3-Methylthiopropionate (CAS# 13327-56-5) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:
Flavor Industry:
- Key flavoring agent for pineapple, tropical fruit, and exotic fruit compositions
- Flavor enhancer for fruit beverages, tropical juice blends, and dairy products
- Savory flavoring for soups, sauces, meat products, and snack applications
- Bakery and confectionery flavoring (at approximately 2 ppm)
- Dessert and beverage flavoring (at approximately 1 ppm)
- FEMA 3343, FDA EAFUS-listed flavoring agent or adjuvant
Fragrance Industry:
- Top note fragrance ingredient for fruity and tropical perfumes
- Pineapple and tropical fruit accords in fine fragrances (0.5–2%)
- Fruity effects in functional fragrances such as shampoos and body washes (0.1–0.5%)
Food Industry:
- Flavoring agent for processed foods and confectionery
- Natural-identical flavor compound for authentic fruit profiles
4. Service Support
Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced flavor chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of flavor formulations, guidance on usage levels and sensory performance, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help.
Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including customs clearance and documentation.
Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), FEMA documentation, and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including FDA, EU Flavor Regulations, REACH, IFRA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.
5. Reasons to Choose XinChem
- Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in flavor and fragrance chemical synthesis and supply.
- Quality: Rigorous quality control, sensory consistency, and adherence to international food-grade standards.
- Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
- Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs.
- Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.
Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 18049800532
Post time: Aug-21-2026