MOLECULE

Benzyl acetate

Benzyl acetate, also known as benzyl ethanoate, is an organic ester formed from the condensation of benzyl alcohol and acetic acid. Benzyl acetate is a neutral compound with a sweet jasmine-like aroma and a sweet, apple, and apricot taste. Benzyl acetate is found in highest concentration in sweet basils and is detected in figs, fruits, pomes, tea, and alcoholic beverages making benzyl acetate a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods. Benzyl acetate is used as a flavoring agent to impart jasmine or apple flavors to various cosmetics and personal care products like lotions, hair creams (https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-06241-4.00013-8). Benzyl alcohol was also found in cannabis plants (PMID: 6991645). Benzyl acetate is a constituent of cannabis smoke and is volatilized during the combustion of cannabis (https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-59259-947-9_2).