FlavScents AInsights Entry for 3-Octanone (CAS: 106-68-3)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 3-Octanone
• IUPAC Name: Octan-3-one
• CAS Number: 106-68-3
• FEMA Number: 2805
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 07.061
• Molecular Formula: C8H16O
• Molecular Weight: 128.21 g/mol
• Functional Groups and Structure–Odor Relevance: 3-Octanone is a ketone with a carbonyl group located at the third carbon of an eight-carbon chain. This structure contributes to its characteristic fruity and mushroom-like odor, which is significant in both flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

3-Octanone is characterized by a fruity, mushroom-like odor with moderate intensity and diffusion. It is often described as having a creamy, nutty undertone, which makes it a versatile component in flavor and fragrance formulations. The odor threshold of 3-octanone is relatively low, allowing it to impart noticeable effects even at minimal concentrations. In sensory applications, it serves as an impact note, providing depth and complexity to both sweet and savory profiles.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

3-Octanone naturally occurs in various fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. It is also found in mushrooms, contributing to their characteristic aroma. The compound can form through enzymatic degradation of fatty acids or during fermentation processes. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, aligning with consumer preferences for naturally derived ingredients.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

3-Octanone is utilized across multiple flavor categories, including dairy, fruit, and mushroom flavors. It functions as a flavor enhancer, providing authenticity and richness to formulations. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and application. It is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 3-octanone is used in various product types, including perfumes, air fresheners, and personal care products. It contributes to fragrance families such as fruity, green, and woody. Its role as a modifier or impact note enhances the overall scent profile, providing a natural and fresh character. Typical concentration ranges in formulations are from trace amounts to 0.5%, depending on the product type and desired effect. 3-Octanone is considered a middle note due to its moderate volatility.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 07.061.
• United Kingdom: Aligns with EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions in ASEAN countries.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with some regional variations.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are prevalent, though country-specific regulations may vary.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 3-octanone is considered safe within the established ADI and MSDI limits, with a wide margin of safety. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation and sensitization potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is generally safe, though occupational settings should ensure adequate ventilation to minimize prolonged exposure. The risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant differences noted.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

3-Octanone is valued for its ability to enhance and modify flavor and fragrance profiles, providing a natural and authentic character. It synergizes well with other fruity and creamy notes, though care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an overpowering effect. Formulators should consider its stability under various conditions and its potential to interact with other ingredients.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 3-octanone is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are generally consistent, though some undocumented variations may exist. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with clear guidelines provided by major regulatory bodies.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-07-02 06:52:07 GMT (p2)