FlavScents AInsights Entry for Benzyl Phenyl Acetate (CAS: 102-16-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Benzyl phenyl acetate
• IUPAC Name: Benzyl 2-phenylacetate
• CAS Number: 102-16-9
• FEMA Number: 2130
• Other Identifiers: FL Number 09.034
• Molecular Formula: C15H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 226.27 g/mol

Benzyl phenyl acetate is an ester compound characterized by the presence of a benzyl group and a phenylacetate moiety. The ester linkage contributes to its distinctive aromatic properties, which are significant in both flavor and fragrance applications. The compound's structure is crucial for its odor profile, providing a sweet, floral scent reminiscent of jasmine.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Benzyl phenyl acetate is known for its sweet, floral, and slightly balsamic odor, often described as reminiscent of jasmine or ylang-ylang. It possesses moderate intensity and diffusion, making it suitable as a middle note in fragrance compositions. The compound's taste threshold is not well-documented, but its odor threshold is typically low, allowing it to impart a noticeable impact even at minimal concentrations. In formulations, it serves as an impact note, enhancing floral and sweet profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Benzyl phenyl acetate is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through esterification of benzyl alcohol and phenylacetic acid. This synthetic pathway is relevant for its designation as a "nature-identical" flavor or fragrance compound, often used to replicate natural scents in a cost-effective manner. Its presence in natural products is rare, and it is primarily utilized in synthetic formulations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Benzyl phenyl acetate is utilized in a variety of flavor applications, particularly in floral and fruity profiles. It is commonly used in confectionery, beverages, and dairy products to impart a sweet, floral note. Typical use levels in finished products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound 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, benzyl phenyl acetate is valued for its ability to enhance floral compositions, particularly in perfumes and personal care products. It is frequently used in the creation of jasmine, ylang-ylang, and other floral accords. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired intensity. The compound contributes primarily as a middle note, offering moderate volatility and a lasting floral character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 09.034.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, subject to local regulations.

Benzyl phenyl acetate is widely accepted across major markets, with harmonized regulations facilitating its use in both flavors and fragrances. However, formulators should verify specific regional requirements to ensure compliance.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Benzyl phenyl acetate is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances at typical concentrations. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by a favorable safety profile, with no specific ADI established but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed during handling.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Benzyl phenyl acetate is a versatile compound, offering significant value in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing overall complexity and depth. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate blends at higher concentrations, and it is often underutilized in subtle applications where its impact can be maximized.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on benzyl phenyl acetate is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. While industry practices are generally consistent, some regional regulatory nuances may require further verification. Known data gaps are minimal, primarily related to specific sensory thresholds.

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 16:52:38 GMT (p2)