Derived from the pressed “cakes” of bitter apricot kernels once their non-volatile components have been removed, Almond Oil Bitter is steam-distilled from the seeds of the Prunus Armeniaca tree. Its aroma is strong, sweet, and clean, composed of nearly 98% pure benzaldehyde.

This makes bitter almond oil an incredibly valuable component of natural flavor and fragrance work, as the high levels of natural benzaldehyde allow the material to be used in all manner of cherry, almond, cola, and pistachio profiles. Bitter almond also finds use in perfumery, adding a sweet top note to formulations that include anise, lilac, and other floral components.