FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-Benzofuran Carboxaldehyde (CAS: 4265-16-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
- Common Name(s): 2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde
- IUPAC Name: 1-benzofuran-2-carbaldehyde
- CAS Number: 4265-16-1
- FEMA Number: Not available
- Other Identifiers: Not available
- Molecular Formula: C9H6O2
- Molecular Weight: 146.14 g/mol
2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde is characterized by a benzofuran ring with an aldehyde group, contributing to its unique odor profile. The presence of the aldehyde functional group is significant for its reactivity and sensory properties, often imparting a sweet, floral, or almond-like aroma.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde is known for its distinctive odor profile, often described as sweet, floral, and reminiscent of almonds. The intensity of its aroma can vary, but it is generally considered to have a moderate diffusion. This compound is typically used as an impact note in fragrance compositions, providing a unique character that can enhance the overall sensory experience.
Taste and odor thresholds for 2-benzofuran carboxaldehyde are not well-documented, but its potent aroma suggests that it is effective at low concentrations. It is primarily used to add complexity and depth to fragrance formulations.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde is not commonly found in nature and is typically synthesized for use in fragrances and flavors. Its formation is often achieved through chemical synthesis rather than natural processes, which limits its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component.
The compound's synthetic origin does not detract from its utility in creating complex and appealing sensory profiles in both flavor and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde is used in various flavor applications, particularly where a sweet, floral, or almond-like note is desired. It can be found in flavor categories such as confectionery, bakery, and beverages, where it serves as a modifier to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests that it is used at low concentrations, often in the range of 1-10 ppm, to achieve the desired sensory effect without overpowering other flavor components. Stability considerations include sensitivity to heat and oxidation, which may affect its performance in certain applications.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
In the fragrance industry, 2-benzofuran carboxaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a sweet, floral, and almond-like aroma. It is used across various fragrance families, including floral, oriental, and gourmand, and is often employed as a trace realism or impact note.
The compound is typically used in low concentrations, ranging from trace amounts to a few percent, depending on the desired effect and the complexity of the fragrance composition. Its volatility allows it to contribute to the top and middle notes of a fragrance, providing an initial burst of aroma that transitions smoothly into the heart of the fragrance.
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 safety and labeling requirements.
- United Kingdom: Post-Brexit regulations align closely with EU standards; no specific divergence noted.
- Asia: Limited specific regulatory information available; general safety and labeling standards apply.
- Latin America: Specific regulatory information is limited; adherence to general safety standards is recommended.
Overall, 2-benzofuran carboxaldehyde is subject to general safety and labeling regulations across regions, with no specific approvals or restrictions noted.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
The safety profile of 2-benzofuran carboxaldehyde is primarily evaluated based on its exposure routes in flavor and fragrance applications. Oral exposure through flavor use is limited due to its low concentration in food products, minimizing potential toxicity. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications should consider potential irritation or sensitization, although specific data is limited. Inhalation exposure is relevant due to its volatility, but occupational exposure limits are not well-defined.
Overall, the compound is considered safe for use in regulated concentrations, with no significant differences in risk profiles between food and fragrance applications.
Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature
8. Practical Insights for Formulators
2-Benzofuran carboxaldehyde is valued for its ability to impart a unique sweet, floral, and almond-like aroma, making it a versatile component in both flavor and fragrance formulations. It synergizes well with other floral and sweet notes, enhancing the complexity and appeal of the final product.
Formulators should be cautious of its potential to dominate a composition if used in excess, and it is often under-utilized due to its potent aroma. Balancing its concentration with other components is key to achieving the desired sensory effect.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 2-benzofuran carboxaldehyde is well-established in terms of its chemical identity and sensory profile. However, specific regulatory approvals and detailed toxicological data are limited, reflecting industry-typical practices rather than comprehensive documentation. Known data gaps include precise use levels and exposure limits, which formulators should verify through practical testing and adherence to safety 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
- 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 2026-09-27 06:19:01 GMT (p2)