FlavScents AInsights Entry: Phenoxyethanol (CAS: 122-99-6)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Phenoxyethanol
• IUPAC Name: 2-Phenoxyethanol
• CAS Number: 122-99-6
• FEMA Number: Data not found
• Other Identifiers: FL Number: 02.001; CoE Number: 249
• Molecular Formula: C8H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 138.17 g/mol

Phenoxyethanol is an aromatic ether alcohol characterized by a phenyl group attached to an ethylene glycol moiety. Its structure contributes to its mild floral odor, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications. The presence of the ether and alcohol functional groups influences its solubility and reactivity, making it a versatile compound in formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Phenoxyethanol is known for its mild, pleasant floral odor with a slight rose-like character. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart subtle nuances even at minimal concentrations.

In flavor applications, phenoxyethanol is less commonly used due to its primary role in fragrance, but it can contribute to the overall aroma profile when used in trace amounts.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Phenoxyethanol is not typically found in nature but can be synthesized through the reaction of phenol with ethylene oxide under basic conditions. This synthetic pathway is crucial for its designation as a non-natural compound, which affects its labeling in "natural" flavor or fragrance products.

Despite its synthetic origin, phenoxyethanol is valued for its stability and consistent sensory properties, which are difficult to achieve with naturally derived counterparts.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Phenoxyethanol is not a primary flavoring agent but can be used in trace amounts to enhance the aroma profile of certain products. It is occasionally employed in flavor systems where a subtle floral note is desired. Typical use levels in food and beverages are very low, often below 1 ppm, due to its potent aroma and potential regulatory restrictions.

Stability considerations include its resistance to heat and pH variations, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. However, formulators should be cautious of its potential to oxidize, which can alter its sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Phenoxyethanol is widely used in the fragrance industry, particularly in floral and fresh fragrance families. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing a subtle floral nuance that enhances the overall composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations vary from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

Its volatility is moderate, contributing primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance. This makes it a versatile component in both personal care and household products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

United States

• Flavor Use: Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
• Fragrance Use: Generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.

European Union

• Flavor Use: Not listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
• Fragrance Use: Permitted with restrictions under the EU Cosmetics Regulation.

United Kingdom

• Post-Brexit regulations align closely with the EU, maintaining similar restrictions and allowances.

Asia

• Japan: Permitted with specific use restrictions.
• China: Subject to national standards for cosmetic ingredients.
• ASEAN: Generally follows EU guidelines with regional adaptations.

Latin America

• Brazil/MERCOSUR: Permitted with adherence to local regulatory frameworks.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Oral Exposure

Phenoxyethanol is not typically used in food applications, and thus oral exposure is minimal. No ADI or MSDI is established for flavor use.

Dermal Exposure

Widely used in cosmetics, phenoxyethanol is considered safe at concentrations up to 1% in leave-on products. It is not a primary irritant or sensitizer, but caution is advised for sensitive skin types.

Inhalation Exposure

Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings. Adequate ventilation and protective measures are recommended to minimize risk.

Overall, phenoxyethanol has a favorable safety profile when used within recommended guidelines, with no significant differences in risk profiles between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Phenoxyethanol is valued for its stability and mild floral aroma, making it a versatile component in both fragrance and flavor formulations. It synergizes well with other floral and fresh notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a composition.

Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and potential oxidation, which can alter its sensory properties. Formulators should ensure proper storage and handling to maintain its integrity.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on phenoxyethanol is well-established, particularly in fragrance applications. While its use in flavors is less documented, industry practices provide guidance on its application. Regulatory frameworks are generally harmonized, though regional variations exist.

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 2026-01-23 04:42:50 GMT (p2)