What Is Phenylacetaldehyde?
Phenylacetaldehyde is a compound with a structure in which one of the alpha-hydrogens of acetaldehyde is replaced by a phenyl group.
Many species of insects use this phenylacetaldehyde as a communicator. It is usually present as a colorless liquid and is characterized by its strong hyacinth-like floral fragrance.
Uses of Phenylacetaldehyde
Phenylacetaldehyde is mainly used as a flavoring agent in the preparation of flowers and fruits.
Phenylacetaldehyde by itself is described as having a honey-like, sweet, rose-like, fresh, and grassy aroma. It is used to enhance the aroma of tobacco as well as being used as a raw material for the preparation of fragrances such as hyacinth, narcissus, acacia, and cyclamen, and flavors such as raspberry, apricot, cherry, and spice.