A unique monobenzoate useful as a plasticizer in polymeric dispersions, such as plastisols and melt compounds. The monobenzoate comprises 3-phenyl propyl benzoate, a benzoate ester heretofore known as a flavoring and fragrance agent, but not previously utilized as a plasticizer in polymeric applications. Depending on the application, the advantages rendered by the use of the inventive monobenzoate include, among other things, excellent solvating properties, low viscosity, viscosity stability, and improved rheology, as well as health, safety and environmental advantages over traditional plasticizers. The monobenzoate may be used alone or in combination with a variety of plasticizers, including but not limited to phthalates, terephthalates, dibenzoates, other monobenzoates, or 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylate esters, and mixtures thereof.