FlavScents AInsights Entry for Diphenyl Oxide (CAS: 101-84-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Diphenyl oxide, Diphenyl ether
• IUPAC Name: Diphenyl ether
• CAS Number: 101-84-8
• FEMA Number: 3354
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.013
• Molecular Formula: C12H10O
• Molecular Weight: 170.21 g/mol

Diphenyl oxide is a single chemical compound characterized by an ether functional group, which contributes to its distinctive odor profile. The structure consists of two phenyl groups connected by an oxygen atom, influencing its volatility and sensory attributes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Diphenyl oxide is known for its floral, geranium-like odor with a slightly sweet undertone. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion properties, making it a valuable component in fragrance formulations. The compound does not have a significant taste profile, and its odor threshold is relatively low, allowing it to impart a noticeable scent even at low concentrations. Typically, it serves as an impact note or a modifier in fragrance compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Diphenyl oxide is not commonly found in nature but can be synthesized through the dehydration of phenol. It is not typically associated with natural flavor or fragrance designations due to its synthetic origin. However, its structural simplicity and stability make it a versatile ingredient in both flavor and fragrance industries.

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

4. Use in Flavors

Diphenyl oxide is used in flavor formulations primarily for its ability to enhance floral notes. It is commonly applied in categories such as floral and fruity flavors. The typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. It is generally stable under normal processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, diphenyl oxide is utilized across various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and woody compositions. It acts as a modifier or impact note, contributing to the overall complexity and depth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. Diphenyl oxide is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility.

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 02.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows 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.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Diphenyl oxide is considered safe for use in flavors and fragrances at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no specific ADI established, but it is used within industry-typical limits. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally 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 in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Diphenyl oxide is valued for its ability to enhance floral notes and add complexity to fragrance compositions. It synergizes well with other floral and woody notes, but formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate if used excessively. It is often under-utilized in flavor applications due to its synthetic origin, but it can provide unique floral characteristics when used judiciously.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on diphenyl oxide is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in use levels and regulatory acceptance may exist across regions. Known data gaps are minimal, but ongoing research into its long-term safety and environmental impact is recommended.

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 2026-10-28 15:18:00 GMT (p2)