Propionic acid

At a glance

Propionic acid is a synthetically produced short-chain fatty acid with a sharp, sour, cheesy odor; used in perfumery as a modifier to add acidity and enhance fruity or animalic notes.

Category
⚗️ Synthetic
Origin
chemical synthesis
Extraction
Chemical synthesis
Chemical family
Acid
CAS number
79-09-4
Profile
pungent, sweet, fruity
IFRA status
Not restricted
● drafted · last checked 2026-09-01