Hexyl Cinnamal
Hexyl cinnamal is GRAS as a synthetic flavoring at 21 CFR 172.515 and has been JECFA/EFSA-evaluated as a flavoring with no safety concern at current intake levels. EU classifies it as one of 26 declarable fragrance allergens in cosmetics; primary concern is skin sensitization, not dietary toxicity.
What it is
Synthetic floral aroma chemical (alpha-hexylcinnamaldehyde); jasmine-like odor.
Flavoring (used at trace levels); primarily a fragrance ingredient.
What regulators actually say
"Synthetic flavoring substances and adjuvants... Cinnamaldehyde, alpha-hexyl- (hexyl cinnamic aldehyde)."
"The Panel concluded that hexyl cinnamaldehyde does not give rise to safety concerns at the estimated levels of intake arising from its use as a flavouring substance."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS synthetic flavoring at 21 CFR 172.515.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized flavoring substance (FL 05.013) under Regulation (EC) 1334/2008; declarable cosmetic allergen under EU 1223/2009.
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