FlavScents AInsights Entry for Veratraldehyde (CAS: 120-14-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Veratraldehyde, also known as 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 120-14-9. It is recognized by the FEMA number 3104. The molecular formula for veratraldehyde is C9H10O3, and it has a molecular weight of 166.18 g/mol. This compound features methoxy groups attached to a benzaldehyde core, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of these functional groups is crucial for its sensory attributes, particularly its sweet, vanilla-like aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Veratraldehyde is known for its sweet, creamy, and vanilla-like odor, often described as reminiscent of heliotrope. It possesses a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for both impact and background roles in formulations. The taste and odor thresholds for veratraldehyde are not clearly reported in the literature, but it is typically used to impart a warm, comforting note in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Veratraldehyde is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through the methylation of vanillin. It is not typically associated with natural flavor or fragrance designations due to its synthetic origin. However, its structural similarity to naturally occurring compounds like vanillin allows it to be used in formulations aiming for a natural-like profile.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, veratraldehyde is used primarily in vanilla and creamy profiles. It is employed in a variety of food categories, including baked goods, dairy products, and confectionery. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to an overpowering effect. Veratraldehyde is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Veratraldehyde is utilized in fragrance compositions for its sweet, vanilla-like aroma. It is commonly found in oriental and gourmand fragrance families, where it serves as a modifier or impact note. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from trace amounts to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. It contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, veratraldehyde is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom aligns with EU regulations. In Asia, regulatory status varies, with Japan and China having specific guidelines for its use. In Latin America, countries like Brazil follow MERCOSUR regulations, which generally align with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Veratraldehyde is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances at typical exposure levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI or MSDI reported. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as per IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Veratraldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a sweet, vanilla-like aroma, enhancing both flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other vanilla and creamy notes, but care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an artificial or cloying effect. Formulators should consider its stability under various conditions to maintain the desired sensory impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on veratraldehyde is well-established, particularly regarding its sensory profile and regulatory status. While specific numeric thresholds are not always available, industry practices provide reliable guidance for its use. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological thresholds, which are typically addressed through conservative formulation practices.

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 2026-08-20 20:40:04 GMT (p2)