Compound Monograph
Benzaldehyde
Benzaldehyde is a simple aromatic aldehyde responsible for the characteristic smell of bitter almonds.
Sources · 5
Where Does It Come From?
Benzaldehyde is a naturally occurring aromatic aldehyde, found in Bitter almond, Rooibos, Cherry and apricot kernels and 2 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Benzaldehyde is the simplest aromatic aldehyde and the compound mainly responsible for the smell and taste of bitter almonds. It occurs naturally in the kernels of almonds, apricots and cherries (often released from amygdalin) and as a minor aroma component of plants such as rooibos. It is one of the most widely used flavor and fragrance ingredients, valued for its almond note.
Toxicity & Safety
Benzaldehyde is an approved flavoring substance and is regarded as low in toxicity at the levels used in foods and fragrances. Concentrated material can be irritating, and the bitter-almond flavor is sometimes confused with cyanide risk — but that hazard comes from amygdalin breakdown in raw bitter kernels, not from benzaldehyde itself.
