Cinnamaldehyde

Cinnamaldehyde (CAS 104-55-2), also known as 3-phenylacrylaldehyde, is the primary aromatic compound responsible for the characteristic flavor and scent of cinnamon.

Where is Cinnamaldehyde used?

• Food: flavoring agent in baked goods, confectionery, beverages and chewing gum at controlled concentrations
• Flavor houses: compounded flavor systems with a warm, spicy profile
• Personal care: fragrance ingredient in cosmetic formulations
• Cosmetic formulations for antioxidant properties in skincare products.
• Oral care: fragrance blends for toothpaste and mouthwash at low use levels
• Perfumery and scented skin care products target warm or oriental fragrance profiles.

Good to know: Natural and synthetic (nature-identical) grades are both commercially available; this distinction matters for clean-label or natural sourcing requirements.

Formulation notes

• Used as a flavoring in chewing gum, ice cream, candy, and beverages at levels ranging from 9 to 4,900 ppm (less than 0.5%).
• Undergoes autoxidation in air to form cinnamic acid.

Typical specification

• Soluble in oils and ethanol.
• Supplied in a 99% purity grade.

Regulatory status

• The presence of cinnamaldehyde must be declared on the ingredient list due to its allergenic potential in sensitive individuals if its concentration exceeds 0.001% in non-rinse products and 0.01% in rinse-off products.
• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Flavor Extract Manufacturers Association and approved for food use by the FDA (21 CFR 182.60).

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store in well-filled, closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place protected from light.

Frequently asked questions about Cinnamaldehyde

What is the water solubility and acid-base character of cinnamaldehyde?

It is practically insoluble in water and behaves as a very weak base, essentially neutral.

What does FCC grade indicate for cinnamaldehyde?

FCC grade means the material meets Food Chemicals Codex specifications for flavor and food applications.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.