This section provides an overview of p-Anisaldehyde (4-Methoxybenzaldehyde), covering its manufacturing processes and regulatory status, as well as its applications in food, fragrance, flavour, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. industries. Also, please check out the introduction to p-Anisaldehyde manufacturers, supply chain issues, p-Anisaldehyde suppliers, and p-Anisaldehyde prices. Sinofi can help you buy p-Anisaldehyde at bulk wholesale prices based on FEMA 2670 and CAS 123-11-5.
Table of Contents
What is p-Anisaldehyde (4-Methoxybenzaldehyde)?
p-Anisaldehyde, also known as 4-methoxybenzaldehyde or anisic aldehyde, is an aromatic aldehyde that holds considerable importance in the flavour and fragrance industries. It serves as a valuable building block for creating complex flavour profiles, particularly those requiring anise-like, sweet, or floral character. Its natural occurrence in various botanical sources, combined with its favourable sensory properties and regulatory acceptance, makes it an essential ingredient in the modern flavour formulator’s toolkit. p-Anisaldehyde consists of a benzaldehyde core with a methoxy group at the para position, which significantly influences its aromatic character. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), p-Anisaldehyde is approved to be used in the flavour, fragrance, and food industries.
Regulatory Status and Safety Considerations
p-Anisaldehyde has been evaluated by major regulatory bodies like JECFA, EFSA, RIFM, ECHACHEM, NIST, and WHO. It maintains a favourable regulatory standing across major global markets. In the United States, the Flavour and Extract Manufacturers Association has affirmed the compound as Generally Recognised as Safe, assigning it FEMA number 2670. The European Union includes p-anisaldehyde in the Union List of flavouring substances permitted for use in and on foods under Commission Implementing Regulation No 872/2012. Formulators should nonetheless verify current regulatory requirements in their specific target markets, as regulations evolve and regional variations exist. The fragrance standard of p-Anisaldehyde has been set by organizations such as IFRA.
Odor Threshold and Sensory Profile
The organoleptic profile of p-anisaldehyde is distinguished by its sweet, powdery, and somewhat floral aroma with pronounced anise and hawthorn-like nuances. At lower concentrations, it imparts a delicate, creamy sweetness reminiscent of mimosa or heliotrope flowers, while at higher concentrations, it reveals its characteristic anise tonality more prominently. The odour threshold is relatively low, typically reported as 10 to 50 parts per billion in water, underscoring the compound’s potency and the need for precise dosing in formulation work.
From a taste perspective, p-anisaldehyde contributes sweet, anise-like notes with subtle vanilla undertones. This flavour character makes it particularly useful for enhancing perceived sweetness in formulations and for building authentic botanical profiles.
Natural Occurrence
p-Anisaldehyde occurs naturally in numerous plant species, supporting its use in natural flavour formulations when appropriate sourcing is employed. Notable botanical sources include anise seed, fennel, star anise, and various members of the Apiaceae family. It has also been identified in hawthorn blossoms, certain wine varieties, and numerous essential oils. This widespread natural occurrence provides flavour chemists with multiple pathways to obtain naturally derived materials that meet clean-label requirements.
CAS No.: 123-11-5
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of p-Anisaldehyde is 123-11-5.
CAS Name: 4-Methoxybenzaldehyde
Molecular Formula: C8H8O2
Molecular Mass: 136.15
Appearance: Colorless to light yellow, clear oily liquid.
JECFA Number: 878
Food Chemicals Codex Listed: Yes
Boiling Point: 248.00 to 249.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg
Solubility: Soluble in: ethyl alcohol, fatty oils, kerosene, propylene glycol. Slightly soluble in water, 4290 mg/L @ 25 °C.
Other Names:
♦ p-Anisaldehyde
♦ 4-Methoxybenzaldehyde
♦ Anisic aldehyde
♦ Crategine
♦ Anisaldehyde
♦ Aubepine
♦ p-Anisic aldehyde
♦ 4-Anisaldehyde
♦ p-Formylanisole
♦ Obepin
♦ p-Methoxybenzaldehyde
♦ Benzaldehyde, 4-methoxy-
p-Anisaldehyde Odor
Odor Strength: Medium
Substantivity: 44 hours at 100.00 %.
Odor Description: At 100.00 %, sweet powdery mimosa, floral hawthorn balsam.
FEMA Number 2670
According to the Flavour and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA), the FEMA number of p-Anisaldehyde is 2670.
Bulk p-Anisaldehyde Manufacturers
The bulk p-Anisaldehyde production capacity is concentrated in Germany and China, which dominate global manufacturing capacity, followed by India, Japan, and the United States. Top p-Anisaldehyde manufacturers like BASF, Givaudan, Firmenich, and Lluch Essence typically operate integrated production facilities capable of producing multiple aromatic compounds, achieving economies of scale and operational efficiencies. Asia-Pacific dominance, particularly Chinese manufacturing capacity, shapes global supply dynamics, while European and North American markets emphasize premium-quality specifications and regulatory compliance.
Sinofi is a bulk p-Anisaldehyde manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of 4-methoxybenzaldehyde. We supply high-quality p-Anisaldehyde at bulk prices and serve food, fragrance, flavour, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of p-Anisaldehyde
The manufacture of p-anisaldehyde relies upon well-established organic transformations adapted for industrial-scale operation. Catalytic oxidation of 4-methylanisole currently dominates commercial production owing to favorable economics and process efficiency.
Catalytic Oxidation of 4-Methylanisole
The most prevalent industrial method for p-anisaldehyde production involves the selective oxidation of 4-methylanisole (p-cresyl methyl ether). This process offers excellent atom economy and utilizes readily available starting materials derived from petrochemical feedstocks. In the vapor-phase oxidation approach, 4-methylanisole is passed over a heterogeneous catalyst at elevated temperatures in the presence of air or oxygen. Iron-molybdenum oxide catalysts and vanadium-based systems have demonstrated favorable selectivity toward aldehyde formation while minimizing over-oxidation to carboxylic acid products.
Formylation of Anisole
Direct formylation of anisole provides another commercially viable route to p-anisaldehyde. The Vilsmeier-Haack reaction employs dimethylformamide and phosphorus oxychloride to generate an electrophilic formylating species in situ. The electron-rich anisole ring undergoes electrophilic aromatic substitution predominantly at the para position, owing to the directing influence of the methoxy substituent. Following aqueous workup and hydrolysis, 4-methoxybenzaldehyde is obtained in good yields. The Gattermann-Koch reaction offers an alternative formylation pathway that utilizes carbon monoxide and hydrogen chloride in the presence of an aluminum chloride catalyst. While this method produces a high-purity product, the requirement for gaseous reagents and Lewis acid catalysts in stoichiometric quantities presents operational challenges at an industrial scale.
Oxidative Cleavage of Anethole
Natural anethole, extracted from star anise or fennel oils, can undergo oxidative cleavage to yield p-anisaldehyde. This transformation typically employs ozone or permanganate-based oxidizing systems to cleave the propenyl side chain.
Dehydrogenation of p-Anisyl Alcohol
Catalytic dehydrogenation of 4-methoxybenzyl alcohol represents a selective transformation for p-anisaldehyde synthesis. Copper chromite or copper-zinc oxide catalysts facilitate hydrogen elimination at temperatures between 200–300°C.
Bulk p-Anisaldehyde Suppliers
The global market for bulk p-Anisaldehyde offers diverse sourcing options across multiple regions and supplier types. Top p-Anisaldehyde suppliers like BASF, Givaudan, Firmenich, and Lluch Essence maintain their positions as industry leaders in the global anisaldehyde market, leveraging their extensive distribution networks and strong footholds in both natural and synthetic production. China remains the dominant distribution hub for bulk p-Anisaldehyde. Chinese p-Anisaldehyde suppliers typically offer competitive pricing due to economies of scale, established production infrastructure, and access to raw materials. Many of them have invested in quality certifications and export capabilities to serve international markets effectively.
Sinofi is a bulk p-Anisaldehyde supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality 4-methoxybenzaldehyde. We sell different grades of p-Anisaldehyde at wholesale prices, serving end-users in food, fragrance, flavour, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. industries.
Supply Chain of p-Anisaldehyde
The p-Anisaldehyde supply chain encompasses a multi-tiered network of participants, from raw material suppliers through to end consumers. This structure can be conceptualized across five primary stages, each involving distinct activities, stakeholders, and value-addition processes.
Raw Material Suppliers
The foundation of the p-Anisaldehyde supply chain rests upon the supply of essential raw materials. The primary precursor for 4-methoxybenzaldehyde synthesis is anisole (methoxybenzene), which itself derives from phenol and methanol. Additionally, formaldehyde or paraformaldehyde serves as the aldehyde source in certain synthetic routes
p-Anisaldehyde Manufacturers
p-Anisaldehyde manufacturers represent the core production segment of the supply chain. These entities synthesize p-Anisaldehyde through various industrial processes, with the two predominant methods being the oxidation of p-methoxytoluene (p-cresyl methyl ether) and the Reimer-Tiemann reaction involving anisole.
Distributors and Trading Companies
Distributors and trading companies serve as intermediaries connecting manufacturers with downstream users. These entities provide essential logistical services, including warehousing, transportation coordination, quality assurance verification, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Formulators and Processors
Formulators and processors transform p-Anisaldehyde into finished or semi-finished products tailored for specific end-use applications. Fragrance houses incorporate the compound into perfume compositions and aromatic blends. Flavour manufacturers use it as a component in food-grade formulations. Pharmaceutical companies employ 4-methoxybenzaldehyde as an intermediate in drug synthesis, while agrochemical producers use it to develop crop protection products.
End-Use Industries and Consumers
The final tier encompasses diverse end-use industries and ultimately, consumers. Personal care and cosmetic manufacturers incorporate p-Anisaldehyde-containing fragrances into products ranging from fine perfumes to household cleaning products. Food and beverage companies use approved flavour formulations in their offerings.
Wholesale and Buy p-Anisaldehyde in Bulk
Successfully procuring p-Anisaldehyde in wholesale quantities demands a strategic approach that balances cost optimization with quality assurance, supply security, and regulatory compliance. p-Anisaldehyde buyers should evaluate suppliers and implement sound inventory management practices to secure this valuable chemical intermediate on terms. Building strong relationships with qualified suppliers and maintaining visibility into market dynamics will position procurement teams to respond effectively to changing conditions and emerging opportunities in the p-Anisaldehyde market.
Key Considerations When Buying in Bulk
Procuring p-Anisaldehyde in wholesale quantities requires careful evaluation of several factors beyond unit price. Purity specifications represent a primary concern, as different applications demand different grades. Fragrance-grade material typically requires a purity of 98 percent or higher, while pharmaceutical applications may require even stricter specifications with documented impurity profiles. p-Anisaldehyde buyers should work closely with quality assurance teams to establish clear specifications before soliciting quotations from suppliers.
Supplier Evaluation and Selection
A rigorous supplier qualification process forms the foundation of successful bulk chemical procurement. p-Anisaldehyde buyers should assess potential vendors based on manufacturing capabilities, quality management systems, regulatory compliance, and track record of reliable delivery.
As a bulk p-Anisaldehyde manufacturer and supplier in China, we wholesale this ingredient to end users across the food, fragrance, flavour, pharmaceutical, and agrochemical sectors. industries. We also supply 4-methoxybenzaldehyde to small customers. Normally, they want to buy p-Anisaldehyde in small quantities. To serve them, we can sell p-Anisaldehyde at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
p-Anisaldehyde Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade p-Anisaldehyde Prices (GC Content >=98%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 9 USD | Express |
| 500g | 44 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 62 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | >25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
North American bulk prices for 100kg+ orders of p-Anisaldehyde range from $25-65/kg for food-grade material. European p-Anisaldehyde prices track similarly at €30-70/kg for food grade. Specialty distributors serving smaller buyers charge substantially more— verified pricing from Sigma-Aldrich shows food-grade p-Anisaldehyde at $113/kg for 1kg quantities, scaling down to $49.2/kg for 25kg orders. The natural-versus-synthetic divide adds another pricing dimension. Natural p-Anisaldehyde derived from star anise extraction commands a 150-250% premium over synthetic material.
Furthermore, the above p-Anisaldehyde price quotations do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost may exceed the sample value of 4-methoxybenzaldehyde. However, the bulk wholesale prices of p-Anisaldehyde will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
p-Anisaldehyde Specification
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow, clear oily liquid. |
| Odor: | Sweet powdery mimosa floral hawthorn balsam. |
| Purity (GC, %) | >= 98 |
| Density (20°C) | 1.1150 – 1.1230 |
| Refractive index @ 20°C | 1.5680 – 1.5740 |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | <=6.0 |
p-Anisaldehyde (4-Methoxybenzaldehyde) Uses
p-Anisaldehyde occupies a notable position in industrial chemistry due to its dual utility as both a finished ingredient and a synthetic intermediate. Its versatile chemical properties and pleasant sensory characteristics have established 4-methoxybenzaldehyde as a valuable compound across multiple industries, from fragrance manufacturing to pharmaceutical synthesis.
Fragrance and Flavour Applications
The fragrance industry represents one of the most significant commercial applications for p-anisaldehyde. Perfumers frequently incorporate this compound into formulations due to its sweet, powdery, and slightly spicy scent profile. It serves as a key ingredient in floral compositions, particularly those designed to evoke notes of hawthorn, lilac, and mimosa. The compound’s excellent blending characteristics allow it to harmonize with other fragrance materials while contributing depth and warmth to finished products.
In the flavour industry, 4-methoxybenzaldehyde functions as a flavouring agent approved for use in food products. It imparts sweet, anise-like notes to confectionery, baked goods, and beverages. The compound occurs naturally in certain foods, including anise and fennel, which supports its acceptance as a food-grade flavouring substance.
Pharmaceutical and Chemical Synthesis
p-Anisaldehyde serves as an important intermediate in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds and fine chemicals. Its aldehyde functional group readily participates in condensation reactions, making it a valuable starting material for constructing more complex molecular architectures. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use this compound to produce certain antihistamines, cardiovascular drugs, and other therapeutic agents.
The compound is also used in the synthesis of agrochemicals, dyes, and specialty chemicals. Its reactivity with amines, alcohols, and other nucleophiles enables the formation of imines, acetals, and related derivatives that serve as intermediates in various manufacturing processes.
p-Anisaldehyde Benefits
p-Anisaldehyde represents a compound whose benefits span multiple industries and applications. It benefits from a generally favorable toxicological profile when handled appropriately. Its natural occurrence in food sources and established history of use in consumer products have contributed to regulatory acceptance in many applications.
p-Anisaldehyde in E-Liquid and Vaping Products
p-Anisaldehyde is an aromatic aldehyde compound that has found widespread use in the electronic cigarette and vaping industry. The compound occurs naturally in several essential oils, including anise oil, fennel oil, and dill oil, as well as in vanilla extract. Its natural occurrence and pleasant aroma profile have made it an attractive option for creating sweet, anise-like, or floral flavour profiles in vaping products.
Use in E-Liquid Formulations
Research examining the chemical composition of commercial e-liquids has consistently identified p-anisaldehyde as a common flavouring compound in these products. A comprehensive study analyzing 39 commercial e-cigarette refill fluids identified 12 flavour chemicals present at concentrations of 1 mg/mL or greater, with p-anisaldehyde among them, along with cinnamaldehyde, menthol, benzyl alcohol, vanillin, eugenol, and benzaldehyde.
In e-liquid formulations, p-anisaldehyde contributes sweet, slightly floral notes that can enhance fruit, dessert, and beverage-style flavours. It is typically used in combination with other flavouring agents to create complex flavour profiles. Manufacturers incorporate it at varying concentrations depending on the desired intensity and character of the final product. Industry guidance suggests concentrations in finished products typically range from 5 to 30 mg/kg, though concentrations in e-liquids may vary significantly from these food-industry benchmarks.
A Tobacco Flavour with Spicy and Sweet Using p-Anisaldehyde
Include the following ingredients (by weight, %):
Star anise oil, 0.55; menthyl acetate, 0.035; clove oil, 0.3; isobutyl cinnamate, 0.006; carrot seed oil, 0.07; megastigmatrienone, 0.18; Peru extract, 8; ylang-ylang oil, 0.0048; benzoin resin, 0.5; 2,3,5-trimethylpyrazine, 0.00035; clove bud oil, 0.04; hawthorn tincture, 8; p-anisaldehyde, 0.09; eugenol, 0.025; isovaleric acid, 0.55; myristica oil, 0.024; 2-methylpyrazine, 0.00025; 7-hydroxycitronellal, 0.004; cinnamyl acetate, 0.0025; ethyl maltol, 3; anisyl acetate, 0.01; 4-methoxyacetophenone, 2; isoamyl isovalerate, 0.025; vanillin, 2; 2-acetylfuran, 0.055; isobutyl acetate, 0.04; propylene glycol, 20; malic acid, 2.4; alcohol, rest.
In conclusion, p-Anisaldehyde represents a strategically important aroma chemical for organizations operating in the food, flavour, fragrance, and consumer products industries. As a bulk p-Anisaldehyde manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of 4-Methoxybenzaldehyde at wholesale prices to clients around the world.