FlavScents AInsights Entry for para-Anisyl Nitrile (CAS: 874-90-8)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): para-Anisyl nitrile
• IUPAC Name: 4-methoxybenzonitrile
• CAS Number: 874-90-8
• FEMA Number: Not applicable
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available; CoE number not available; IFRA reference not specified
• Molecular Formula: C8H7NO
• Molecular Weight: 133.15 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: para-Anisyl nitrile contains a methoxy group attached to a benzene ring, which is linked to a nitrile group. The methoxy group contributes to its sweet, floral odor profile, while the nitrile group can add a subtle almond-like note.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

• Odor and Flavor Descriptors: para-Anisyl nitrile is characterized by a sweet, floral odor with nuances of almond and anise. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and good diffusion.
• Taste and/or Odor Thresholds: Specific threshold data not found; however, it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.
• Typical Sensory Role: It serves as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a sweet and floral character that can enhance the overall bouquet.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

• Known Natural Sources: para-Anisyl nitrile is not commonly found in nature and is primarily synthesized for use in flavors and fragrances.
• Formation Pathways: It is typically produced through chemical synthesis, involving the reaction of anisole with cyanogen bromide.
• Relevance to “Natural Flavor” or “Natural Fragrance” Designation: Due to its synthetic origin, para-Anisyl nitrile does not qualify for natural flavor or fragrance designations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

• Flavor Categories and Applications: para-Anisyl nitrile is used in flavor compositions for its sweet, floral, and almond-like notes, often in confectionery, bakery, and beverage applications.
• Functional Role in Flavor Systems: It acts as a modifier, enhancing sweetness and floral characteristics.
• Typical Use Levels: Documented use levels are not readily available; however, industry-typical use is in the range of 1-10 ppm in finished products.
• Stability Considerations: para-Anisyl nitrile 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

• Fragrance Families and Product Types: Commonly used in floral and oriental fragrance families, para-Anisyl nitrile is found in perfumes, soaps, and lotions.
• Functional Role: It serves as a trace realism note, adding depth and complexity to floral accords.
• Typical Concentration Ranges: Typically used at concentrations of 0.1-1% in fragrance formulations.
• Volatility and Top/Middle/Base Contribution: para-Anisyl nitrile is a middle note, providing a lasting floral character.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States (FDA / FEMA GRAS): Not explicitly listed as GRAS by FEMA.
• European Union (Reg. (EC) No 1334/2008; FL number status): Not specifically listed; use may be subject to general safety evaluations.
• United Kingdom (post-Brexit alignment or divergence): Follows EU regulations; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia (Japan, China, ASEAN): Regulatory status not clearly reported; formulators should verify local regulations.
• Latin America (e.g., Brazil, MERCOSUR): Not explicitly listed; harmonized assumptions may apply.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: Data not found for ADI or MSDI; typical use levels suggest low exposure risk.
• Dermal Exposure: No specific IFRA restrictions; generally considered non-irritating at typical use levels.
• Inhalation Exposure: Volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures recommended.
• Risk Profiles: Generally similar for food and fragrance applications, with low risk at typical use levels.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

• Why This Material is Valuable: para-Anisyl nitrile provides a unique sweet and floral note that is difficult to replicate with other materials.
• Typical Synergies: Pairs well with other floral and sweet notes, such as jasmine and vanilla.
• Common Formulation Pitfalls: Overuse can lead to an overpowering almond note; balance with other components is crucial.
• Situations Where It is Frequently Over- or Under-Used: Often under-used in complex floral compositions where its subtlety can enhance depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

• Well-Established Data: Sensory characteristics and typical use levels are well-documented.
• Industry-Typical but Undocumented Practices: Use in fragrance formulations is based on industry norms.
• Known Data Gaps or Regulatory Ambiguities: Specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are limited.

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 2026-06-25 14:33:43 GMT (p2)