Methyl cinnamate is the methyl ester of cinnamic acid and is a white or transparent solid with a strong, aromatic odor. It is found naturally in a variety of plants, including in fruits, like strawberry, and some culinary spices, such as Sichuan pepper and some varieties of basil. Eucalyptus olida has the highest known concentrations of methyl cinnamate (98%) with a 2-6% fresh weight yield in the leaf and twigs.

Methyl cinnamate soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, glycerin, propylene glycol and most volatile oil and mineral oil. Insoluble in water.

Molecular formula C₁₀H₁₀O₂

Molar mass 162.185 g/mol

Density 1.092 g/cm³

Melting point 34-38 °C

Boiling point 261-262 °C

Flash point >110 °C

CAS number 1754-62-7

PubChem 637520

EC number 203-093-8

Hazards

Toxicology & safety

Hazard symbol: Xi - Irritant

Risk Code: R 36/38

Safety Code: S 02, S 24/25, S 26, S 36

Methyl cinnamate is used in the flavor and perfume industries. The flavor is fruity and strawberry-like; and the odor is sweet, balsamic with fruity odor, reminiscent of cinnamon and strawberry. It also used as organic intermediate and mainly used in medical industry.