FlavScents AInsights Entry for 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol (CAS: 56718-71-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol
• IUPAC Name: 4-(2-methoxyethyl)phenol
• CAS Number: 56718-71-9
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C9H12O2
• Molecular Weight: 152.19 g/mol

4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is a single chemical compound characterized by a phenolic structure with a methoxyethyl group. The presence of the phenolic hydroxyl group is significant for its odor profile, contributing to its aromatic properties. The methoxyethyl side chain may influence its volatility and solubility, impacting its application in flavor and fragrance formulations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is known for its distinctive odor profile, which can be described as sweet, phenolic, and slightly medicinal. The intensity of its aroma is moderate, making it suitable as a background note or modifier in complex formulations. The compound's diffusion is relatively stable, providing a consistent sensory experience over time. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature, but its sensory role is typically as a subtle enhancer rather than a dominant note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is not widely reported as a natural constituent in common food or plant sources. Its formation is typically associated with synthetic processes rather than natural biosynthesis. As such, it is not commonly designated as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component. The lack of natural occurrence limits its use in products labeled as natural unless derived from a natural source through approved processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is utilized in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to impart a sweet, phenolic character. It finds application in categories such as confectionery, beverages, and dairy products. Its functional role is often as a background note that enhances the overall flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished products are not well-documented, but industry practices suggest low ppm ranges to avoid overpowering the primary flavors. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions, including moderate heat and pH variations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol contributes to the creation of complex aromatic profiles. It is used in fragrance families such as woody and oriental, where it acts as a modifier or impact note. The compound is typically used in trace amounts, contributing to the middle notes of a fragrance composition. Its volatility is moderate, allowing it to blend well with both top and base notes, providing a balanced olfactory experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed under FEMA GRAS.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no specific divergence reported.
• Asia: Limited information available; typically follows international guidelines.
• Latin America: Regulatory status not clearly documented; often aligns with international standards.

The regulatory landscape for 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is characterized by a lack of explicit approvals, with its use often governed by general safety and exposure guidelines.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for specific ADI or MSDI values. General safety assessments suggest low toxicity at typical flavor use levels.
• Dermal Exposure: Limited data on irritation or sensitization; considered low risk in fragrance applications at typical concentrations.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests minimal occupational exposure risk under normal use conditions.

The risk profile for 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol does not significantly differ between food and fragrance applications, with both considered safe under standard usage practices.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is valued for its ability to subtly enhance and modify complex flavor and fragrance profiles. It synergizes well with other phenolic and sweet notes, providing depth and character. Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate if used in excess, particularly in delicate formulations. It is often under-utilized due to its niche sensory profile, but when used judiciously, it can significantly enhance product appeal.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 4-(2-methoxyethyl) phenol is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory characteristics. However, there are notable gaps in specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data. Industry practices often rely on general safety guidelines due to these gaps.

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 2026-09-22 20:43:17 GMT (p2)