FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-3-octen-1-ol (CAS: 20125-84-2)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-3-octen-1-ol
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-oct-3-en-1-ol
• CAS Number: 20125-84-2
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: FL number not available, CoE number not available, IFRA reference not available
• Molecular Formula: C8H16O
• Molecular Weight: 128.21 g/mol

(Z)-3-octen-1-ol is an unsaturated alcohol characterized by a double bond in the Z configuration, contributing to its distinct odor profile. The presence of the hydroxyl group and the unsaturation in the carbon chain are crucial for its sensory attributes, often associated with green and fresh notes.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-3-octen-1-ol is known for its green, leafy odor reminiscent of freshly cut grass or cucumber. It is often described as having a moderate intensity with a fresh, slightly waxy character. The compound is typically used as an impact note in formulations, providing a natural, fresh quality to both flavors and fragrances. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but it is generally used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(Z)-3-octen-1-ol occurs naturally in various plants and is a component of essential oils from sources such as mint and other herbs. It can form through enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, particularly during the processing of plant materials. This compound is relevant for "natural flavor" designations when derived from natural sources, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

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

4. Use in Flavors

(Z)-3-octen-1-ol is utilized in flavor formulations to impart fresh, green notes, enhancing the authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors. It is commonly used in applications such as beverages, confectionery, and savory products. Typical use levels in finished products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering effects. The compound is relatively stable under neutral pH conditions but may degrade under acidic or high-temperature conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, (Z)-3-octen-1-ol contributes to the green and fresh character of compositions. It is used in a variety of fragrance families, including floral, green, and herbal. The compound acts as a modifier or impact note, often in trace amounts due to its strong odor. It is typically found in top to middle notes, providing a fresh opening to the fragrance. Volatility is moderate, allowing it to blend well with other components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should align with general flavoring regulations.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific data; general compliance with local flavor and fragrance regulations is advised.
• Latin America: No specific data; adherence to MERCOSUR and local regulations is recommended.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, specific ADI or MSDI values for (Z)-3-octen-1-ol are not available, but it is generally considered safe at typical use levels in flavors. Dermal exposure in fragrances should be monitored for potential irritation or sensitization, although no specific IFRA restrictions are noted. Inhalation exposure is considered low risk due to moderate volatility, but occupational safety measures should be observed in manufacturing settings.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-3-octen-1-ol is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and herbal notes, enhancing the naturalness of formulations. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering effect. It is often under-utilized in complex blends where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-3-octen-1-ol is well-established in terms of its sensory profile and typical applications. However, specific regulatory approvals and toxicological data are less documented, requiring formulators to rely on industry-typical practices and general safety guidelines.

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 12:36:24 GMT (p2)