MOLECULE

Methyl valerate

Methyl valerate also known as methyl pentanoate belongs to the class of organic compounds known as fatty acid methyl esters. Fatty acid methyl esters are compounds containing a fatty acid that is esterified with a methyl group. They have the general structure RC(=O)OR', where R=fatty aliphatic tail or organyl group and R'=methyl group. Fatty acid methyl esters are used to produce detergents and biodiesel. In fact, most of the molecules in biodiesel are fatty acid methyl esters, usually obtained from vegetable oils by transesterification. Methyl valerate is a very hydrophobic molecule, practically insoluble in water. In a very pure form (greater than 99.5%) it is used as a plasticizer in the manufacture of plastics. Methyl pentanoate is commonly used in fragrances, beauty care, soap, and laundry detergents. Methyl pentanoate is also used as a flavouring agent. It is a sweet, apple, and fruity tasting compound. Methyl pentanoate has been detected, but not quantified, in several different foods, such as tea, herbs and spices, asian pears, alcoholic beverages, and coffee and coffee products. Methyl pentanoate has also been reported to be a volatile component in cannabis samples (PMID: 26657499).