FlavScents AInsights Entry for 4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde (CAS: 120-25-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde
• IUPAC Name: 4-ethoxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde
• CAS Number: 120-25-2
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C10H12O3
• Molecular Weight: 180.20 g/mol

4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is characterized by its aromatic aldehyde group, which is crucial for its odor profile. The presence of methoxy and ethoxy groups contributes to its unique scent, often described as sweet and floral. These functional groups are significant in determining the compound's interaction with olfactory receptors, influencing its sensory perception.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is known for its sweet, floral odor with hints of vanilla and almond. It is often used as a modifier in fragrance compositions to impart a warm, comforting aroma. The compound's intensity is moderate, making it suitable for both impact notes and background realism in formulations. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not clearly reported, but it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances. Its formation typically involves the ethylation of anisaldehyde, a process that can be achieved through various chemical synthesis pathways. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under most regulatory frameworks.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is used to impart sweet, floral notes reminiscent of vanilla and almond. It is commonly employed in confectionery, bakery products, and beverages. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor system. The compound is relatively stable under typical food processing conditions, though it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is utilized in various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and gourmand. It serves as a modifier and impact note, providing warmth and sweetness to perfumes, lotions, and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from 0.01% to 0.5%, depending on the product type and desired olfactory effect. The compound contributes primarily to the middle notes of a fragrance composition due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring guidelines.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; usage should comply with national standards.
• Latin America: Limited specific data; usage should comply with regional standards.

The regulatory status of 4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde varies, with no explicit approvals noted in major regions. Formulators should ensure compliance with local regulations and safety assessments.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for ADI or MSDI; usage should be guided by general safety assessments and industry practices.
• Dermal Exposure: No specific IFRA restrictions noted; general safety assessments should guide usage in personal care products.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered in manufacturing settings.

The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications may differ, with dermal and inhalation exposures being more relevant for fragrance use. Safety assessments should consider all potential exposure routes.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart sweet, floral notes that enhance the complexity of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other aldehydes and vanillin derivatives. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering scent, and instability in highly acidic or basic environments. It is often under-utilized in formulations seeking a warm, comforting aroma profile.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 4-ethoxy-3-anisaldehyde is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and safety 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 2026-02-12 00:53:54 GMT (p2)