FlavScents AInsights Entry for Siam Benzoin Resin (CAS: 9000-72-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

Siam benzoin resin, also known as benzoin Siam or gum benzoin, is a natural complex material derived from the resin of the Styrax tonkinensis tree. It is not a single chemical compound but a mixture of various constituents. The CAS number for Siam benzoin resin is 9000-72-0. It does not have a specific FEMA number due to its complex nature. Other identifiers include its use in IFRA standards and its recognition in various fragrance and flavor compendiums. As a natural resin, it does not have a defined molecular formula or molecular weight. The resin is characterized by its balsamic, sweet, and vanilla-like aroma, which is attributed to its complex mixture of constituents.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Siam benzoin resin is renowned for its rich, balsamic, and sweet aroma with strong vanilla and cinnamon-like notes. It is often described as warm and comforting, with a moderate to high intensity and good diffusion. The resin's sensory profile makes it a popular choice for adding depth and warmth to both flavors and fragrances. It serves as an impact note in formulations, providing a sweet and resinous character that enhances the overall sensory experience. Specific taste and odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its strong aroma suggests a low threshold for detection.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Siam benzoin resin is naturally sourced from the Styrax tonkinensis tree, primarily found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand and Laos. The resin is collected by making incisions in the tree bark, allowing the exudate to harden and be harvested. This natural resin is considered a "natural fragrance" and "natural flavor" due to its direct derivation from plant sources without synthetic alteration. The formation of its characteristic aroma is due to the complex mixture of constituents, including benzoic acid, vanillin, and cinnamic acid derivatives.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, Siam benzoin resin is used to impart a sweet, balsamic, and vanilla-like note. It is commonly used in confectionery, baked goods, and beverages to enhance sweetness and provide a warm, comforting background. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 5 to 50 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor profiles. The resin is stable under typical food processing conditions, but care should be taken to avoid excessive heat, which may degrade some of its aromatic components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

Siam benzoin resin is a staple in the fragrance industry, used in a variety of fragrance families, including oriental, gourmand, and woody compositions. It acts as a base note, providing warmth and depth to perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentration ranges in fragrances are from 0.1% to 5%, depending on the desired intensity and product type. Its low volatility makes it an excellent fixative, helping to stabilize and prolong the presence of more volatile top and middle notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

5a. Key Constituents (Typical)

Siam benzoin resin is composed of several key constituents, including benzoic acid, vanillin, cinnamic acid, and benzyl benzoate. These components contribute to its characteristic sweet and balsamic aroma. The composition of the resin can vary significantly depending on the geographic origin, harvest time, and processing methods. It is important for formulators to verify the specific profile of the resin they are using to ensure consistency in their products.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed literature; authoritative industry references

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, Siam benzoin resin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in flavors by FEMA. In the European Union, it is regulated under the EC No 1334/2008 for flavorings, with specific FL number status. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is used in traditional applications, but specific regulatory details may vary. In Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, it is used in both flavors and fragrances, with regulations aligning closely with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Siam benzoin resin is considered safe for use in both flavor and fragrance applications when used within recommended levels. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by its GRAS status, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrances is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild irritation or sensitization. IFRA provides guidelines for its safe use in perfumery. Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but occupational exposure should be managed to minimize potential respiratory irritation.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Siam benzoin resin is valued for its ability to impart a warm, sweet, and balsamic character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with vanilla, cinnamon, and other sweet or spicy notes. Formulators should be cautious of its strong aroma, which can dominate blends if overused. It is often under-utilized in modern formulations, where its traditional and comforting aroma can add a unique depth and richness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on Siam benzoin resin is well-established, with extensive historical use in both flavors and fragrances. While industry practices are well-documented, some variability in composition and regulatory interpretations exist. Formulators should ensure they are using high-quality, consistent sources of the resin to maintain product integrity.

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
• Includes section 5a for complex natural material

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 2026-03-05 19:05:59 GMT (p2)