A unique combination of KI/ZnFe2O4 as a catalyst for oxidative Strecker reaction.

α‐Aminonitriles as key intermediates for the preparation of α‐amino acid derivatives, amides, diamines, peptides, proteins and heterocycles were synthesized through methylarene oxidation in the Strecker reaction using a unique combination of KI/ZnFe2O4 as the best catalyst and aqueous tert‐butyl hydroperoxide as oxidant. A wide range of amines and methylarenes were converted to the corresponding products. Operational simplicity, short reaction time and recyclability of the catalyst are advantages of this protocol. α‐Amino nitriles were synthesized through the methylarenes oxidation in Strecker reaction by a unique combination of KI/ZnFe2O4 as the best catalyst and aqueous ter‐butyl hydroperoxide as an oxidant in good to high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]