Question

Which of the following is the flavoring agent for food, beverages etc.?
(A)- Acetone
(B)- Formaldehyde
(C)- Benzaldehyde
(D)- Phenol

Answer 1

In order to find which of these are the flavoring agent for food, we must first understand what a flavoring agent is. Flavoring agents are the food additives which are added to the food to enhance their taste. It will also modify and improve the aroma which can be lost due to food processing.

Complete answer:
To identify which of these are the flavoring agent for food and beverages, we need to see the general properties and uses of all the compounds given to us in the options.
First let us come to option (A) Acetone:
- Acetone is a colorless liquid which is used as a solvent in the production of plastics and other industrial products. It is also used in household products, cosmetics and as a nail polish remover.
- It is used in the textile industry.
- Used in the production of lacquers for automotive and furniture finishes.
Now let us see option (B) Formaldehyde:
-Formaldehyde is the most basic aldehyde made of hydrogen, carbon and oxygen.
-It is also found in the production of resins such as urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde, which are used to make moulds for foundries.
-It is used in agriculture and medicine where it is known for a disinfectant, fungicide, fumigant and preservatives.
Now let us move onto option (C) Benzaldehyde
- Benzaldehyde is an organic chemical compound.
- It has many uses. It is known to be one of the most industrially useful aldehydes. This compound is primarily used as a common food additive to give products and beverages an almond-like fruity scent.
- It is used in cosmetic personal care products.
Now let us see option (D) Phenol:
- Phenol is used in the household products and as intermediates for industrial synthesis. Phenol itself can be used as a disinfectant in household cleaners and also used in mouthwash productions but only in smaller concentrations.
Therefore, we can see that benzaldehyde is a flavoring agent used in food and beverages.

So, the correct answer is option (C) Benzaldehyde.

Note:
- U.S Code of Federal Regulation had laid few regulations on flavoring agents being added in the food items.
- The regulations set out the food substances which are used as flavorings for which an evaluation and approval is required.
- If the flavoring agents fulfills that requirement then only it can be used in our foods.