FlavScents AInsights Entry for Phenyl Acetaldehyde Dimethyl Acetal (CAS: 101-48-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal
• IUPAC Name: 1,1-dimethoxy-2-phenylethane
• CAS Number: 101-48-4
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H14O2
• Molecular Weight: 166.22 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is characterized by its acetal functional group, which contributes to its stability and distinctive odor profile. The presence of the phenyl group is significant for its aromatic properties, influencing its use in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is known for its sweet, floral, and slightly fruity aroma, reminiscent of honey and roses. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with a pleasant diffusion. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a floral and sweet character that enhances the overall sensory experience. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported in the literature, but its role as a modifier in both flavor and fragrance systems is well recognized.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through chemical pathways. It is often produced via the acetalization of phenylacetaldehyde with methanol. This compound is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origin.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is utilized in various flavor categories, including floral, fruity, and honey-like profiles. It serves as a functional modifier, enhancing the sweetness and floral notes in flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with industry-typical values often guiding formulation practices. The compound 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

In the fragrance industry, phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is used in floral and sweet fragrance families. It acts as a trace realism enhancer and impact note, contributing to the top and middle notes of a fragrance composition. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are qualitative, with its volatility making it suitable for top and middle note applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage in flavors and fragrances should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; compliance with general safety and labeling regulations is required.
• United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with regional safety standards is advised.
• Latin America: Specific regulatory data not found; adherence to local safety and labeling requirements is recommended.

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 practices should be followed.
• Dermal Exposure: No specific data on irritation or sensitization; formulators should consider IFRA guidelines for similar compounds.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be in place.

Risk profiles may differ between food and fragrance applications, with fragrance use requiring careful consideration of dermal and inhalation exposure.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is valued for its ability to impart a sweet, floral character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other floral and fruity notes, enhancing the overall complexity of a formulation. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering sweetness, and underuse, which may result in a lack of desired impact. Formulators should balance its use to achieve the intended sensory profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on phenyl acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and functional roles. However, specific regulatory and toxicological data are limited, necessitating reliance on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines. Known data gaps include precise regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological assessments.

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 2026-05-18 19:00:13 GMT (p2)