Plants and animals are not likely to store butyraldehyde. Effects of butyraldehyde on human health and the environment depend on how much butyraldehyde is present and the length and frequency of exposure. Effects also depend on the health of a person or the condition of the environment when exposure occurs. Exposure to butyraldehyde liquid for short periods of time damages the eyes. Exposure to butyraldehyde liquid irritates the skin.
Studies show that exposure to large amounts of butyraldehyde in air causes anesthesia in animals.
These effects are not likely to occur at levels of butyraldehyde that are normally found in the environment. Human health effects associated with breathing or otherwise consuming small amounts of butyraldehyde over long periods of time are not known. Laboratory studies show that repeated exposure to large amounts of butyraldehyde in air can adversely affect the lining of the nose and the lungs of animals. Laboratory studies show that repeated oral exposure to large amounts of butyraldehyde can adversely affect the stomach. Limited evidence shows that butyraldehyde may also cause changes in cells important to the reproductive system of animals.