6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · flavoring agent · solvent · preservative
Benzaldehyde
Also known as: benzenecarbaldehyde, phenylmethanal, benzal
Molecular Formula
C7H6O
Molecular Weight
106.12 g/mol
Category
aromatic aldehyde
Bottom Line: Benzaldehyde is generally recognized as safe in low concentrations, though some individuals may experience sensitivity. Always check product labels.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations in cosmetics
- used in food flavoring within regulatory limits
- properly diluted in household products
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- using in large quantities in household products
- consuming food products with high concentrations
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor
- you have a known allergy to benzaldehyde or related compounds
- using in undiluted form on the skin
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C7H6O |
| Molecular Weight | 106.12 g/mol |
| Melting Point | -26.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 179.0°C |
| Solubility | miscible at room temperature (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 1.5 |
Common Use Cases
5 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, skin creams, lotions. Use in low concentrations to minimize irritation risk.
Food
Almond flavoring, baked goods, confectionery. Generally safe when used as a flavoring agent.
Pharmaceutical
Cough syrups, topical ointments. Consult a healthcare provider for use in medications.
Household
Cleaning products, air fresheners. Ensure proper ventilation when using products containing benzaldehyde.
Supplement
Flavoring agents in dietary supplements. Use only as directed and consult a healthcare professional.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Benzaldehyde is typically well tolerated on skin, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of benzaldehyde can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of benzaldehyde vapors may cause respiratory irritation in high concentrations.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and potential damage; avoid exposure.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposures.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety during pregnancy.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with proper use.
- sensitive_skin — Moderate risk; patch testing recommended.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Children may be more sensitive to chemical exposures. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on transfer through breast milk; caution is advised. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde with various applications. Regulatory bodies generally consider it safe in specified uses.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | no sensitization observed | Human clinical study | Low sensitization potential | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Benzaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde with various applications. Regulatory bodies generally consider it safe in specified uses.
- Used in cosmetics, food, and household products.
- Sensitivity reactions can occur in some individuals.
- Regulatory reviews support its safe use within limits.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Benzaldehyde
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Benzaldehyde is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Benzaldehyde
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Benzaldehyde is safe for use as a food flavoring agent.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Benzaldehyde is permitted as a food additive under specific conditions.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Benzaldehyde is generally permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Used within specified limits
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Used in food and cosmetics within limits
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Used in food and cosmetics within limits
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Used in food and cosmetics within limits
Frequently Asked Questions
Benzaldehyde is generally safe in low concentrations, but some may experience irritation.
Yes, it is permitted as a food flavoring agent, but check for concentration limits.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T04:19:18.933908Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.