FlavScents AInsights Entry for Benzothiazole (CAS: 95-16-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Benzothiazole
• IUPAC Name: 1,3-Benzothiazole
• CAS Number: 95-16-9
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not applicable
• Molecular Formula: C7H5NS
• Molecular Weight: 135.19 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Benzothiazole is a heterocyclic aromatic compound containing a thiazole ring fused to a benzene ring. Its structure contributes to its characteristic odor, which is often described as rubbery or sulfurous, making it relevant in certain fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: Benzothiazole is characterized by a rubbery, sulfurous odor with a slight floral undertone. It is typically used in fragrances to impart a unique, complex note.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific thresholds are not well-documented, but its potent odor suggests a low threshold.
• Typical Sensory Role: Benzothiazole is often used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a distinctive character that can enhance the complexity of a scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: Benzothiazole is not commonly found in nature but can be a degradation product of certain natural compounds.
• Formation Pathways: It can form through the breakdown of rubber and other sulfur-containing materials, as well as through certain industrial processes.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its synthetic origin and formation pathways, benzothiazole is not typically classified as a natural flavor or fragrance component.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: Benzothiazole is not widely used in flavor applications due to its strong odor profile.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: When used, it serves as a background note to add complexity.
• Typical Use Levels: Data not found; typically used at very low levels due to its potent odor.
• Stability Considerations: Benzothiazole is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Used in niche and specialty fragrances, particularly those requiring a rubbery or sulfurous note.
• Functional Role: Acts as a modifier or impact note, adding depth and complexity.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Used in trace amounts due to its strong odor; specific quantitative data not clearly reported.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: Benzothiazole contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not listed as GRAS for flavor use.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not explicitly approved for flavor use.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence reported.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly reported; typically follows international guidelines.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): High-level regulatory status not available; generally aligns with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Not typically used in food applications; therefore, oral exposure is minimal.
• Dermal Exposure: Low potential for irritation or sensitization at typical fragrance use levels; not listed by IFRA as a restricted substance.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatile compound; occupational exposure should be monitored in industrial settings.
• Risk Profiles: Generally considered safe at low concentrations in fragrance applications; no significant differences in risk profiles between food and fragrance uses due to limited flavor application.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: Benzothiazole provides a unique odor profile that can enhance the complexity of certain fragrance compositions.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other sulfurous or rubbery notes to create a cohesive scent profile.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering and unpleasant odor; careful dosing is essential.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used due to its potent odor, but can be over-used in attempts to achieve a specific scent profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Structural and sensory characteristics are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use levels and specific applications in niche fragrances may not be extensively documented.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Limited data on flavor use and specific regulatory approvals in certain regions.

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 available, noted as such)
• 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 benzothiazole)

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 2026-04-22 12:54:55 GMT (p2)