Bennzaldehyde-Aroma, Flavoring

What is benzaldehyde?

Benzaldehyde is a colorless, aromatic liquid that has a pleasant almond-like odor. It quickly evaporates (turns from a liquid to a gas) upon exposure to the air.

How is benzaldehyde used?

Food additive flavoring Benzaldehyde is mainly used as a food and  flavoring additive and can be found in many foods, including baked goods, frozen dairy, fruit juice, soft candy, gelatin pudding, non- alcoholic beverages, alcoholic beverages, hard candy, and chewing gum. Benzaldehyde is also used in dyes,fragrances (perfumes, deodorants, etc.), pharmaceuticals (drugs), personal care items (shave gels, moisturizing gels/creams, bath   soaps, etc.), as artificial flavoring (cherry and almond flavors), and as an additive for  one or more types of tobacco products. Industrial grade Benzaldehyde is also used as a solvent for oils, resins, and cellulose fibers.

Where do you find benzaldehyde in the environment?

Everywhere. Benzaldehyde is naturally found in almonds, apples, peaches, cherry and apricot kernels, and other Prunus species (fruits that have pits).  Benzaldehyde can also be naturally found in essential oils    including hyacinth, citronella, orris,cinnamon, sassafras, labdanum (“rock rose”) and patchouli (type of mint). Benzaldehyde has also been found in melon, grapes, tea and whisky.  Benzaldehyde can also be found in combustion by-products in car and truck exhaust, wood fires and tobacco smoke. A Swedish study of indoor dust detected benzaldehyde in 373 out of 389 homes. This suggests that the occurrence in the homewould reflect its widespread use in household products.