FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1,4-Dichlorobenzene (CAS: 106-46-7)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
1,4-Dichlorobenzene, also known as para-dichlorobenzene or p-DCB, is a chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbon. Its IUPAC name is 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and it is identified by the CAS number 106-46-7. The FEMA number for 1,4-dichlorobenzene is not applicable as it is not typically used in flavor applications. Other identifiers include its FL number and CoE number, which are not commonly referenced for this compound. The molecular formula is C6H4Cl2, and it has a molecular weight of 147.00 g/mol. The compound consists of a benzene ring with two chlorine atoms substituted at the para positions, which influences its odor profile and chemical reactivity.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
1,4-Dichlorobenzene is characterized by a strong, penetrating odor often described as camphoraceous, mothball-like, and slightly sweet. It is primarily used for its odor-masking properties rather than as a flavoring agent. The compound's odor threshold is relatively low, making it effective in small concentrations. Its sensory role is typically as an impact note in industrial and household products, where it serves to mask unpleasant odors.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
1,4-Dichlorobenzene is not naturally occurring and is synthesized through the chlorination of benzene in the presence of a catalyst. This process does not involve natural pathways such as the Maillard reaction or fermentation. As a synthetic compound, it does not qualify for "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations under current regulatory frameworks.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
1,4-Dichlorobenzene is not used in flavor applications due to its synthetic origin and potential health concerns. Therefore, there are no typical use levels expressed as ppm in finished food or beverage products. Its stability under various conditions such as heat, pH, and oxidation is not relevant to flavor formulation.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In fragrance applications, 1,4-dichlorobenzene is used primarily in mothballs and deodorizing blocks. It belongs to the camphoraceous fragrance family and is used in household products for its strong odor-masking capabilities. Typical concentration ranges are not publicly documented, but it is known for its high volatility, contributing to its role as a top note in fragrance compositions.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, 1,4-dichlorobenzene is not approved for use in food flavors but is regulated for use in consumer products. The European Union also restricts its use in food applications, aligning with Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008. In the United Kingdom, post-Brexit regulations mirror those of the EU. In Asia, countries like Japan and China have specific regulations for its use in consumer products, while ASEAN countries follow similar guidelines. In Latin America, regulations vary, with some countries allowing limited use in industrial applications.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
1,4-Dichlorobenzene poses potential health risks primarily through inhalation and dermal exposure. It is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Oral exposure is not a concern in flavor use due to its non-approval for such applications. Dermal exposure can cause irritation, and it is not recommended for use in personal care products. Inhalation exposure is a significant concern, especially in occupational settings, due to its volatility and potential respiratory effects.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Formulators value 1,4-dichlorobenzene for its strong odor-masking properties, making it useful in industrial and household products. It is often used in combination with other compounds to enhance its deodorizing effect. A common pitfall is overuse, which can lead to overpowering and potentially harmful concentrations. It is crucial to adhere to regulatory guidelines and safety data when incorporating this compound into formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 1,4-dichlorobenzene is well-established, particularly regarding its chemical properties and regulatory status. However, industry practices related to its use in fragrances are less documented, and there are known data gaps in its long-term health effects. Regulatory ambiguities exist in certain regions, necessitating careful review of local guidelines.
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 (not applicable for this compound)
- Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
- Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
- If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable for this compound)
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 2026-09-28 11:42:06 GMT (p2)