FlavScents AInsights Entry for Oxybenzone (CAS: 131-57-7)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Oxybenzone
• IUPAC Name: (2-Hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-phenylmethanone
• CAS Number: 131-57-7
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not applicable, CoE number not applicable, IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C14H12O3
• Molecular Weight: 228.24 g/mol

Oxybenzone is a benzophenone derivative characterized by its phenolic and methoxy functional groups. These groups contribute to its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light, making it a common ingredient in sunscreens. Its structure does not directly relate to odor relevance, as it is primarily used for its UV-filtering properties rather than sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Oxybenzone does not have significant odor or flavor characteristics that are relevant to its primary applications. It is not typically used for its sensory properties in flavor or fragrance formulations. Therefore, specific odor and flavor descriptors, as well as taste or odor thresholds, are not applicable.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Oxybenzone is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, typically involving the reaction of 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone with phenol. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Oxybenzone is not used in flavor applications due to its lack of sensory attributes and potential safety concerns when ingested. Therefore, there are no typical use levels or stability considerations relevant to flavor systems.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Oxybenzone is occasionally used in fragrance formulations, primarily for its UV-filtering properties rather than its scent. It may be included in products where UV protection is desired, such as in certain personal care products. Its volatility is low, and it does not contribute to the top, middle, or base notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Oxybenzone is approved by the FDA for use in sunscreens at concentrations up to 6%. It is not FEMA GRAS for flavor use.
• European Union: Regulated under the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, allowing up to 10% in sunscreen products.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit, with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Regulations vary; Japan allows its use in cosmetics, while China has specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Brazil and other MERCOSUR countries have similar regulations to the EU, with specific concentration limits in cosmetic products.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not applicable for flavor use; no ADI or MSDI established.
• Dermal Exposure: Oxybenzone is a known skin sensitizer and can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It is included in IFRA standards for its potential to cause irritation.
• Inhalation Exposure: Low volatility reduces inhalation risk, but occupational exposure should be minimized.

The risk profile for oxybenzone differs significantly between food and fragrance applications, with primary concerns related to dermal exposure in cosmetic products.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Oxybenzone is valued for its UV-filtering properties, making it useful in products requiring sun protection. It is often used in synergy with other UV filters to enhance efficacy. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to cause skin sensitization and ensure compliance with regional regulations regarding concentration limits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on oxybenzone is well-established in the context of its use in sunscreens and cosmetics. However, its application in flavors is undocumented due to safety concerns. Regulatory guidelines are clear, but ongoing research into its safety profile, particularly concerning endocrine disruption, is necessary.

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 (not applicable for oxybenzone)
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable for oxybenzone)

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 2026-04-20 09:42:30 GMT (p2)