# Phenethyl Benzoate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 94-47-3
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Phenethyl benzoate is an organic compound used as a flavoring agent and flavor enhancer in food products. It is derived from benzoic acid and phenethyl alcohol, and contributes fruity and floral aromatic characteristics to beverages, confectionery, and other processed foods.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Phenethyl Benzoate?

Phenethyl benzoate (CAS Number 94-47-3) is an ester compound formed from the combination of benzoic acid and phenethyl alcohol. It exists as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, floral odor reminiscent of strawberry and rose notes. The compound belongs to the broader category of synthetic flavoring agents that are designed to enhance or modify the sensory profile of food and beverage products.

## Common Uses

Phenethyl benzoate functions primarily as a flavoring agent and flavor enhancer in the food industry. It is typically employed in low concentrations to add or amplify fruity and floral notes in products such as:

- Beverages (soft drinks, juices, flavored waters)
- Confectionery and candy
- Baked goods
- Dairy products
- Processed desserts and snacks

The compound's aromatic properties allow formulators to achieve desired sensory characteristics while using smaller quantities of natural flavor extracts, potentially reducing production costs.

## Safety Assessment

Phenethyl benzoate has not been formally evaluated by the FDA under the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) program. However, the available safety data does not indicate significant concerns. According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with phenethyl benzoate consumption, and no product recalls have been linked to this ingredient.

The compound is structurally similar to other benzoate esters that have undergone safety evaluation. Benzoates as a class have been extensively studied, and benzoic acid itself has long been approved as a preservative in food. The phenethyl ester form represents a modification primarily for flavoring purposes rather than preservation.

Key considerations for safety include:

- Typical use levels in food are very low (parts per million range)
- The compound undergoes metabolism similar to other benzoate esters
- No known bioaccumulation in human tissues
- No reported genotoxicity or reproductive concerns at food-relevant exposure levels

## Regulatory Status

Regulatory approval for phenethyl benzoate varies by jurisdiction. In the United States, while not on the GRAS list, the compound may be permitted in food under FDA regulations for flavoring substances and adjuvants. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and other regulatory bodies maintain lists of approved flavoring compounds, though specific approvals vary by region and product category.

Manufacturers using phenethyl benzoate should verify current regulatory compliance in their target markets, as flavor additive regulations continue to evolve and differ between countries.

## Key Studies

Limited published research specifically addresses phenethyl benzoate in isolation. However, relevant data exists regarding:

- Benzoate ester metabolism and kinetics in human subjects
- Structural toxicity predictions based on similar flavor compounds
- Organoleptic properties and effectiveness as a flavoring agent

The absence of adverse event reports and recalls in FDA databases, combined with decades of safe use of chemically similar compounds in food, suggests an acceptable safety profile at typical use levels. However, the lack of dedicated human safety studies means that comprehensive toxicological data is limited compared to more extensively reviewed food additives.

Additive manufacturers and users are generally responsible for ensuring safety at intended use levels, following guidelines established by regulatory agencies and flavor industry organizations.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Phenethyl Benzoate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/phenethyl-benzoate. Accessed 2026-05-19.