FlavScents AInsights Entry for Benzonitrile (CAS: 100-47-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Benzonitrile
• IUPAC Name: Benzenecarbonitrile
• CAS Number: 100-47-0
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not assigned; CoE number not applicable; IFRA reference not specified
• Molecular Formula: C7H5N
• Molecular Weight: 103.12 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Benzonitrile is characterized by a nitrile group attached to a benzene ring. The nitrile group contributes to its distinct almond-like odor, which is relevant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Benzonitrile is known for its almond-like odor, which is often described as sweet and slightly bitter. It has a moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable for use as a background note or modifier in fragrance compositions. The taste threshold for benzonitrile is not well-documented, but its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Benzonitrile is not commonly found in nature but can be formed through the degradation of certain plant materials. It is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origin in most commercial applications. The compound can be synthesized through the ammoxidation of toluene or by the dehydration of benzamide.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Benzonitrile is used in flavor formulations primarily for its almond-like aroma. It is often employed in nut and fruit flavor profiles, where it serves as an impact note or background enhancer. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to a bitter aftertaste. Benzonitrile is stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, benzonitrile is utilized in various fragrance families, including floral and oriental compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, providing a sweet, almond-like scent. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the desired intensity. Benzonitrile 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)

• United States: Benzonitrile is not listed as a FEMA GRAS substance for flavor use. Its use in fragrances is subject to general safety regulations.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 for flavor use; no FL number assigned.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Regulatory status varies; not explicitly listed in Japan or China for flavor use.
• Latin America: Limited specific regulatory information available; generally follows international safety standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Benzonitrile is not commonly used in food applications due to its potential toxicity at higher concentrations. No ADI or MSDI is established.
• Dermal Exposure: In fragrance applications, benzonitrile is considered safe at typical use levels, with low potential for irritation or sensitization.
• Inhalation Exposure: Due to its volatility, inhalation exposure should be minimized in occupational settings. Proper ventilation and protective equipment are recommended.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Benzonitrile is valued for its ability to impart a distinct almond-like aroma, making it useful in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other nutty and fruity notes. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to impart bitterness at higher concentrations and ensure stability under varying processing conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on benzonitrile is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, there are gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data, particularly for flavor applications. Industry practices often rely on informed estimates and general safety guidelines.

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 2026-04-14 17:54:03 GMT (p2)