FlavScents AInsights Entry: Benzyl Acetate (CAS: 140-11-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Benzyl Acetate
• IUPAC Name: Benzyl ethanoate
• CAS Number: 140-11-4
• FEMA Number: 2135
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.011
• Molecular Formula: C9H10O2
• Molecular Weight: 150.18 g/mol

Benzyl acetate is an ester formed from benzyl alcohol and acetic acid. It features a benzyl group attached to an acetate moiety, which contributes to its characteristic floral and sweet aroma. The ester functional group is crucial for its volatility and odor profile, making it a valuable component in both flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Benzyl acetate is renowned for its pleasant, sweet, and floral aroma reminiscent of jasmine. It is often described as having a fruity undertone with a hint of pear and apple. The compound exhibits moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable as both an impact note and a background modifier in complex scent compositions. While specific taste thresholds are not well-documented, its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable fragrance even at minimal concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Benzyl acetate naturally occurs in various flowers, including jasmine, ylang-ylang, and gardenia. It is also found in fruits such as pears and apples. The compound can be biosynthesized in plants through the esterification of benzyl alcohol with acetic acid. Its presence in natural sources qualifies it for use in products labeled as containing "natural flavors" or "natural fragrances."

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

4. Use in Flavors

Benzyl acetate is widely used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit and floral profiles. It is commonly employed in the creation of apple, pear, and tropical fruit flavors. In flavor systems, it acts as a modifier and impact note, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Typical use levels in finished food or beverages range from 1 to 30 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is relatively stable under normal conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, benzyl acetate is a key component in floral and fruity fragrance families. It serves as a top to middle note, providing a sweet and fresh character. Its volatility allows it to blend well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the complexity of the fragrance. Typical concentrations in perfumes range from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Benzyl acetate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 09.011.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards.
• Asia: Generally accepted in Japan and China, with specific use levels subject to national regulations.
• Latin America: Recognized under MERCOSUR regulations, with harmonized assumptions across member countries.

Explicit approvals exist in major markets, though formulators should verify compliance with local regulations due to potential variability.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Benzyl acetate is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no specific ADI established, but it is included in the TTC (Threshold of Toxicological Concern) approach. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as supported by IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Benzyl acetate is valued for its versatility and ability to enhance both flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other esters and floral compounds, providing depth and complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends if used excessively. It is often underutilized in non-floral applications, where it can add unexpected freshness and sweetness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on benzyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some regional regulatory nuances may exist. No significant data gaps are identified, but ongoing research may refine understanding of its sensory and safety profiles.

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 2026-07-07 10:34:19 GMT (p2)