# Phenylacetaldehyde Glyceryl Acetal

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 29895-73-6
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal is a synthetic flavoring compound derived from phenylacetaldehyde and glycerin. It is used in food as a flavoring agent to impart fruity, honey, and herbaceous taste notes in various processed food products.

## 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 Phenylacetaldehyde Glyceryl Acetal?

Phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal (CAS Number: 29895-73-6) is a synthetic organic compound classified as a flavoring agent. It is an acetal formed through the chemical reaction between phenylacetaldehyde and glycerin. The resulting molecule functions as a flavor component used to enhance or create specific taste profiles in food applications. As a synthetic flavoring, it does not occur naturally in significant quantities but is manufactured for food industry use.

## Common Uses

Phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal is employed as a flavoring adjuvant primarily in processed food and beverage products. Its flavor profile is characterized as fruity, floral, and honey-like with subtle herbaceous notes. Common applications include:

- Confectionery and candy formulations
- Baked goods and pastries
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milk
- Beverages including soft drinks and flavored waters
- Dessert sauces and toppings
- Processed snack foods

The compound is typically used in very small concentrations, as is standard with synthetic flavor compounds, where potency allows efficacy at minimal levels.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported associated with phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal, and no product recalls have been issued related to this ingredient. The absence of reported safety incidents suggests no acute toxicity concerns have emerged from its use in food applications.

The safety profile of flavor compounds is generally evaluated through toxicological studies examining oral toxicity, potential genotoxicity, and repeated-dose studies. As with most synthetic flavoring agents, phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal undergoes evaluation of its metabolic fate and potential accumulation in body tissues.

It is important to note that this additive does not currently hold FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status. GRAS status is determined through either FDA affirmation or through a robust body of scientific evidence demonstrating safe use. The absence of GRAS status does not indicate the ingredient is unsafe; rather, it indicates that either formal approval pathways have not been completed or the additive falls under different regulatory frameworks.

## Regulatory Status

In the United States, phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal is not listed as a GRAS substance. However, it may be permitted for use in specific food categories under FDA regulations governing food additives, or it may be used in foods where pre-market approval has been obtained through the food additive petition process.

Regulatory status varies internationally. Different food safety authorities in the European Union, Japan, and other regions maintain separate lists of approved flavorings. Some synthetic flavor compounds approved in one jurisdiction may have different status in others based on varying risk assessment methodologies and safety thresholds.

Manufacturers and food companies using this ingredient are responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable regulations in their target markets.

## Key Studies

Published scientific literature on phenylacetaldehyde glyceryl acetal specifically is limited in public databases. However, safety assessment of acetal-based flavor compounds and phenylacetaldehyde derivatives has been conducted by flavor industry toxicology organizations and regulatory bodies.

The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) maintains a panel that evaluates the safety of flavoring substances. Safety data for related phenylacetaldehyde compounds and glycerin-based acetals inform the broader understanding of this compound class.

Further research into the long-term safety profile, metabolism, and potential biological interactions would be valuable for establishing comprehensive safety documentation.

## 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. "Phenylacetaldehyde Glyceryl Acetal — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/phenylacetaldehyde-glyceryl-acetal. Accessed 2026-05-19.