Denatonium Benzoate

Other names: Lidocaine benzyl benzoate, benzyl diethyl [(2,6-xylylcarbamoyl)methyl] ammonium benzoate

Denatonium benzoate, also known by the names lidocaine benzyl benzoate or benzyl diethyl [(2,6-xylylcarbamoyl)methyl] ammonium benzoate, is a substance that has been described as the world's most bitter-tasting chemical compound. It was discovered in 1958 by a Belgian pharmaceutical company. Denatonium benzoate is a white crystalline powdery substance that is soluble in water and which is toxic in high concentrations. The substance is characterised by its bitter and unpleasant taste, which is intended to deter people and animals from consuming the dangerous substance.

Denatonium benzoate finds use in a wide range of products such as body creams, shampoos, soaps, nail polishes, mouthwashes and other cosmetic and personal care products. This substance has the ability to mask unpleasant odors and thus improve the overall fragrance of the product. Due to its bitter taste, it is also incorporated into a number of products that should not be consumed - for example, various cleaning and disinfecting agents, refrigerant liquids, and also into alcoholic beverages intended for industrial use to prevent drinking. All this makes denatonium benzoate a very useful tool for manufacturers trying to prevent unwanted or unsafe use of their products.