Denatonium benzoate

Denatonium benzoate (CAS 3734-33-6), also known commercially as Bitrex, is recognized as the most intensely bitter substance known.

Where is Denatonium benzoate used?

• Industrial: aversive agent preventing accidental ingestion of hazardous or non-consumable products
• Pharmaceuticals and healthcare: added to topical formulations and rubbing alcohols to discourage oral ingestion
• Personal care: nail-biting deterrent products and hand sanitizers where accidental ingestion is a safety concern
• Industrial formulators use it to denature ethanol and other solvents, satisfying regulatory requirements without altering solvent performance.
• Household and consumer products: antifreeze, detergents, and cleaning agents protecting children and animals from accidental poisoning

Good to know: At concentrations as low as a few parts per million, it renders products unpalatable without affecting their functional performance.

Commercial specifications

• Denatonium benzoate anhydrous is the standard commercial form
• Typical supply quantities range from small packs to bulk quantities suited for large-scale formulation or blending operations