FlavScents AInsights Entry for Diphenyl Oxide (CAS: 101-84-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Diphenyl oxide, Diphenyl ether
• IUPAC Name: Diphenyl ether
• CAS Number: 101-84-8
• FEMA Number: 3354
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.013
• Molecular Formula: C12H10O
• Molecular Weight: 170.21 g/mol

Diphenyl oxide is characterized by its ether functional group, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The aromatic structure of diphenyl oxide is crucial for its odor characteristics, providing a floral and slightly phenolic scent that is often associated with its use in fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Diphenyl oxide is known for its floral, geranium-like odor with a slightly phenolic undertone. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in fragrance formulations. The compound is typically used as an impact note, providing a floral character that enhances the overall scent profile of a product.

Odor thresholds for diphenyl oxide are not widely documented, but its role as a prominent note in fragrance compositions suggests a relatively low threshold, allowing it to be perceived at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Diphenyl oxide is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through industrial processes. It is typically produced by the reaction of phenol with benzene in the presence of a catalyst. This synthetic origin means that diphenyl oxide does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Diphenyl oxide is used in flavor applications, particularly in floral and fruity profiles. It serves as a functional component that enhances the realism and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in food and beverages are not extensively documented, but industry practices suggest usage in the range of 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application.

The compound is stable under typical flavor formulation conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations, but may be susceptible to oxidation over extended periods.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, diphenyl oxide is a versatile ingredient used across various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and woody compositions. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a floral and slightly phenolic character that enhances the complexity of the fragrance.

Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary, with diphenyl oxide often used at levels of 0.1% to 2% depending on the desired effect. It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance, offering moderate volatility that supports its role in the heart of the scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.013.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, but specific regulations may vary across countries like Brazil and MERCOSUR members.

Diphenyl oxide is widely accepted for use in both flavor and fragrance applications, with harmonized assumptions across major markets. However, formulators should verify specific country regulations to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Diphenyl oxide is considered safe for use in flavors at typical concentrations, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not clearly reported but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS.
• Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, diphenyl oxide is not known to cause significant irritation or sensitization at typical use levels. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific restrictions.
• Inhalation Exposure: As a volatile compound, diphenyl oxide may pose inhalation risks in occupational settings, necessitating appropriate ventilation and safety measures.

Overall, the risk profiles for diphenyl oxide differ slightly between food and fragrance applications, with dermal and inhalation considerations being more relevant for fragrance use.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Diphenyl oxide is valued for its ability to impart a floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity and appeal of the formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering phenolic note, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired floral impact.

Formulators should consider the stability of diphenyl oxide in their systems, particularly regarding oxidation, and adjust concentrations accordingly to achieve the desired sensory effect.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on diphenyl oxide is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory characteristics and regulatory status. Industry practices are generally consistent, though specific use levels in flavors may vary due to limited documentation. Known data gaps include precise odor thresholds and comprehensive toxicological profiles, which should be addressed through further research.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1-9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-01-21 16:44:03 GMT (p2)