FlavScents AInsights Entry for Syringaldehyde (CAS: 134-96-3)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
Syringaldehyde, also known as 4-Hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde, is a single chemical compound with the CAS number 134-96-3. It is identified by the FEMA number 3233. The molecular formula for syringaldehyde is C9H10O4, and it has a molecular weight of 182.17 g/mol. This compound contains functional groups such as aldehyde and methoxy groups, which contribute to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of these groups is crucial for its sensory attributes, impacting its use in flavor and fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
Syringaldehyde is characterized by a sweet, vanilla-like odor with woody and spicy nuances. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and a warm, balsamic character. The compound is used as an impact note in various formulations, providing a rich and complex aroma. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely reported, syringaldehyde is known for its ability to enhance the depth and realism of both flavors and fragrances.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
Syringaldehyde naturally occurs in various plant species, including certain types of wood and vanilla beans. It is formed through the oxidative degradation of lignin, a complex polymer found in the cell walls of plants. This compound is relevant to the designation of "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" due to its occurrence in nature and its derivation from natural sources.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, syringaldehyde is used in categories such as vanilla, chocolate, and spice flavors. It serves as a functional component that enhances the overall complexity and authenticity of the flavor profile. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 1 to 20 ppm, with variations depending on the specific application and desired intensity. Syringaldehyde is generally stable under typical processing conditions, although it may be sensitive to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
Syringaldehyde is utilized in fragrance formulations across various families, including oriental, woody, and gourmand. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the richness and warmth of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in perfumes and personal care products are from 0.1% to 1%, depending on the desired effect. Syringaldehyde is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility and ability to bridge top and base notes effectively.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, syringaldehyde is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, syringaldehyde is permitted in Japan and China, with specific use conditions. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and members of MERCOSUR have aligned regulations for its use in flavors and fragrances. Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are generally consistent, although some country-specific variations may exist.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, syringaldehyde is considered safe within the established ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) levels, although specific values are not clearly reported. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as per IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is considered minimal due to its moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
Syringaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a warm, vanilla-like character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other vanilla and woody notes, enhancing the overall complexity of formulations. Common pitfalls include overuse, which can lead to an overpowering aroma, and underuse, which may result in a lack of depth. Formulators should balance its use carefully to achieve the desired sensory impact.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on syringaldehyde is well-established, with comprehensive information available from authoritative sources. Industry-typical practices are documented, although some specific numeric values, such as taste and odor thresholds, are not clearly reported. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with consistent guidelines across major regions.
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 2026-02-11 16:08:15 GMT (p2)