FlavScents AInsights Entry: Phenethyl Alcohol (CAS: 60-12-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Phenethyl alcohol, also known as 2-phenylethanol, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 60-12-8. It is commonly referred to by its IUPAC name, 2-phenylethanol. The FEMA number for phenethyl alcohol is 2858. Other identifiers include its FL number 02.013 and CoE number 246. The molecular formula of phenethyl alcohol is C8H10O, and it has a molecular weight of 122.16 g/mol. This compound features a hydroxyl group attached to a phenyl ring, which contributes to its characteristic rose-like odor. The presence of the hydroxyl group is crucial for its solubility in water and its role in fragrance and flavor applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Phenethyl alcohol is renowned for its pleasant floral aroma, reminiscent of roses, with a mild, sweet, and slightly spicy undertone. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion, making it a versatile component in both flavors and fragrances. The odor threshold of phenethyl alcohol is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it serves as an impact note, enhancing the floral and fruity characteristics of a product.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Phenethyl alcohol occurs naturally in a variety of plants and is a key component of rose oil. It is also found in small quantities in foods such as wine, beer, and certain fruits. The compound can be formed through the enzymatic degradation of phenylalanine or via fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources allows it to be designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" under certain regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In the flavor industry, phenethyl alcohol is used to impart floral and fruity notes to a wide range of products, including beverages, candies, and baked goods. It functions as a flavor enhancer and is typically used at concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 ppm in finished products, depending on the desired intensity. Phenethyl alcohol is stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade at high temperatures or in acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Phenethyl alcohol is a staple in the fragrance industry, commonly used in floral compositions such as rose, lily, and lilac. It acts as a modifier and impact note, providing a natural and fresh floral scent. Typical concentrations in fragrance formulations range from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the product type and desired effect. Phenethyl alcohol is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility and ability to blend well with other fragrance components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, phenethyl alcohol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 02.013. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, phenethyl alcohol is permitted in Japan and China, with specific use levels defined by local authorities. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR also allow its use in flavors and fragrances, adhering to international safety standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Phenethyl alcohol is considered safe for use in both flavors and fragrances, with a wide margin of safety. For oral exposure, it has an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by regulatory bodies. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is also considered safe, although occupational exposure limits should be observed in manufacturing settings. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Phenethyl alcohol is valued for its ability to impart a natural floral aroma, making it a versatile ingredient in both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired impact. Formulators should consider its stability and compatibility with other ingredients to optimize its use.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on phenethyl alcohol is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are well-documented, although some variability in use levels may exist due to formulation-specific requirements. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted, providing a high level of confidence in its safety and efficacy.

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 2026-08-27 07:37:05 GMT (p2)