67.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance ingredient · solvent · preservative · flavoring agent
BENZALDEHYDE, 4-METHOXY-
Category
fragrance
Bottom Line: Benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- properly formulated in products
- not applied to broken skin
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you have allergies to fragrances
✕ Avoid If:
- you experience irritation or allergic reactions
- you have a known sensitivity to benzaldehyde
- using in large quantities without dilution
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetics when used as directed.
Food
Flavoring agents, baked goods, confectionery. Used in food flavoring; ensure compliance with regulations.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Used in formulations; follow dosage guidelines.
Household
Air fresheners, cleaning products. Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid irritation.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- is generally safe for skin contact in low concentrations.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- may cause gastrointestinal irritation.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure can lead to respiratory irritation, particularly in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact with benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- may cause irritation and discomfort.
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 in low concentrations.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated, but monitor for sensitivities.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically tolerate benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- well in cosmetic and food applications. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on the 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. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and minimal irritation potential.
| 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 | not sensitizing | Human repeated insult patch test | No sensitization observed | 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, 4-methoxy- is assessed for safety in cosmetics and food, showing low toxicity and minimal irritation potential.
- Low acute toxicity in animal studies.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
- May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
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 considered safe for use as a flavoring substance in food.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Benzaldehyde is permitted as a flavoring agent in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy- is generally permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safe, it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals; patch testing is recommended.
Consult a healthcare provider before using products containing this ingredient during pregnancy.
Discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if irritation occurs.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T17:36:11.458582Z | — | 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.