FlavScents AInsights Entry for Mesitaldehyde (CAS: 487-68-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Mesitaldehyde, also known as 3,5-dimethylbenzaldehyde, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 487-68-3. It does not have a FEMA number. The molecular formula for mesitaldehyde is C9H10O, and it has a molecular weight of 134.18 g/mol. Structurally, mesitaldehyde is characterized by an aromatic benzene ring substituted with two methyl groups and an aldehyde group. The presence of these functional groups contributes to its distinctive odor profile, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Mesitaldehyde is known for its sweet, floral, and slightly woody odor, often described as reminiscent of hawthorn or almond. It has a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in complex formulations. The taste and odor thresholds for mesitaldehyde are not well-documented, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Mesitaldehyde is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through chemical pathways such as the oxidation of mesitylene. It is not typically associated with natural flavor or fragrance designations due to its synthetic origin. However, its structural similarity to naturally occurring aldehydes allows it to mimic certain natural aromas in formulations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, mesitaldehyde is used to impart sweet, floral notes, often in almond or cherry flavor profiles. It serves as a functional modifier, enhancing the complexity and depth of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering or off-notes. Mesitaldehyde is generally stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Mesitaldehyde is utilized in various fragrance families, including floral and woody compositions. It acts as a trace realism enhancer or impact note, providing a sweet, almond-like aroma. Concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are typically low, often below 1%, due to its strong odor profile. Mesitaldehyde contributes primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance, with moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, mesitaldehyde is not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA, but it is used in compliance with general safety standards. In the European Union, it is subject to the regulations under (EC) No 1334/2008, though specific FL number status is not clearly reported. The United Kingdom follows similar guidelines post-Brexit. In Asia, regulatory information is limited, but it is generally assumed to be permissible under similar safety assessments. Latin American regulations, such as those in Brazil and MERCOSUR, do not specifically address mesitaldehyde, but it is used under general safety provisions.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, mesitaldehyde's safety profile is not extensively documented, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. It is used in low concentrations to minimize potential risks. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications may pose irritation or sensitization risks, though it is not classified as a high-risk allergen by IFRA. Inhalation exposure considerations are minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Mesitaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart sweet, floral notes that enhance the complexity of both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and floral compounds. Formulators should be cautious of its potent odor, which can lead to overuse and imbalance in compositions. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a natural aroma profile due to its synthetic origin.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on mesitaldehyde is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data, particularly regarding oral exposure limits. Industry practices often rely on informed estimates and general safety guidelines due to these gaps.

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 2026-08-24 05:59:48 GMT (p2)