Benzaldehyde

Brief Overview
Benzaldehyde is used in aroma compositions due its bitter almond odor and is applied as a starting material for a large number of aliphatic fragrance and flavor materials.
b) Manufacturing Process
A significant quantity of natural benzaldehyde is produced from cinnamaldehyde obtained from cassia oil by the retro-aldol reaction. There are two main steps:
The cinnamaldehyde is heated in an aqueous/alcoholic solution between 90 °C and 150 °C with a base (most commonly sodium carbonate or bicarbonate) for 5 to 80 hours.
Then, it is followed by distillation of the formed benzaldehyde. This reaction also yields acetaldehyde. The natural status of benzaldehyde obtained in this way is controversial.
 

Pharmaceutical Industry
Precursor to additives
b) Plastic Industry
Precursor to additives
c) Flavor Industry
Almond flavor to foods and scented products
Flavor chemical in JUUL e-cigarette pods, particularly the "Cool Mint", "Cool Cucumber", and "Fruit Medley" varieties
d) Other Applications
Precursor to certain acridine dyes
Bee repellent