Methyl Benzoate (CAS 93-58-3) is an organic compound belonging to the aromatic ester group with the chemical formula C6H5COOCH3. It is a clear, colorless liquid that is poorly soluble in water but miscible with many organic solvents. The most prominent characteristic of this chemical is its highly distinctive odor: sweet, rich, and a blend of floral and fruity notes, reminiscent of feijoa, ylang-ylang, tuberose, cherry, and almond. In nature, Methyl Benzoate is emitted from various fruits and flower essential oils, such as guava, mango, kiwi, snapdragon, and petunia, to attract pollinating bees.
In the perfumery and food industries, thanks to its captivating scent profile, Methyl Benzoate plays an indispensable role. It is particularly useful in formulating and recreating intense, deep white floral notes such as ylang-ylang, tuberose, jasmine, and narcissus. Furthermore, this chemical is recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union (EU) as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use as a food flavoring agent. When diluted at appropriate concentrations, it imparts flavors of cherry, vanilla, tropical fruits, and rum to food products, chewing gum, and beverages.
In the industrial and manufacturing sectors, Methyl Benzoate acts as a powerful solvent. It is commonly used as a solvent for cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, synthetic resins, and rubber. In the textile industry, it is applied as a dyeing assistant (carrier) for polyester fibers, which helps to shorten the dyeing time, lower the required temperature, and improve the color fastness of the dyed fabric. Additionally, it serves as an important intermediate for synthesizing other chemical and pharmaceutical compounds.
Its potential applications in biorational agriculture and forensic science are attracting significant attention. Recently, it has been proven to be an efficient and environmentally friendly "green pesticide". Studies demonstrate that this chemical can repel and kill the eggs and larvae of numerous agricultural and stored-product pests (such as the spotted wing drosophila, brown marmorated stink bug, diamondback moth, and red imported fire ant) by inhibiting the neural enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). While highly toxic to insect pests, it is safe for natural enemies and pollinators like honeybees and lady beetles, making it ideal for integrated pest management (IPM) programs. In forensics, because Methyl Benzoate is a natural degradation product of cocaine in humid environments, it is frequently used as a signature scent to train drug-detection dogs.
Regarding safety and the environment, Methyl Benzoate exhibits a low to moderate level of toxicity to humans. It carries hazard warnings that it is harmful if swallowed (H302) and is suspected of damaging the unborn child (H361d). It may also cause mild irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. However, according to ecological assessments, Methyl Benzoate is readily biodegradable in the environment (achieving a 62% degradation rate after 29 days) and does not have the potential for long-term bioaccumulation. This makes it a sustainable material choice when stored and used in compliance with safety regulations.
All orders will be processed within 1-2 business days from the time the order is confirmed.
Free shipping is available for international retail orders valued at 500 USD or more.
Delivery time is 1-3 business days for local areas, 3-7 days for suburban and nationwide deliveries, and 1-4 weeks for international orders.
You have 30 days from the date of receipt to initiate the return process.
