FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1-octen-3-ol (CAS: 3391-86-4)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

1-octen-3-ol, commonly known as mushroom alcohol, is a volatile organic compound with the IUPAC name (R)-oct-1-en-3-ol. Its CAS number is 3391-86-4. This compound is identified by the FEMA number 3517. The molecular formula of 1-octen-3-ol is C8H16O, and it has a molecular weight of 128.21 g/mol. The structure of 1-octen-3-ol includes a hydroxyl group attached to an unsaturated carbon chain, which is significant for its characteristic mushroom-like odor. This functional group is crucial for its role in both flavor and fragrance applications, contributing to its sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

1-octen-3-ol is renowned for its distinctive mushroom-like odor, often described as earthy, green, and slightly metallic. It is a potent aroma compound with a low odor threshold, making it effective even at low concentrations. The compound is typically used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a realistic mushroom character. Its intensity and diffusion are moderate, allowing it to blend well with other aroma compounds without overpowering them.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

1-octen-3-ol is naturally found in various fungi, including mushrooms, and is a significant component of their aroma profile. It is also present in some fruits and vegetables. The compound is formed through the enzymatic degradation of linoleic acid, a process that occurs in mushrooms and other fungi. This natural origin allows 1-octen-3-ol to be designated as a "natural flavor" in many regulatory contexts, enhancing its appeal in natural product formulations.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 1-octen-3-ol is primarily used to impart a mushroom-like note, enhancing the authenticity of savory profiles. It is commonly used in soups, sauces, and meat analogs. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the complexity of the flavor system. The compound is relatively stable under typical processing conditions, although it may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

1-octen-3-ol is utilized in fragrance formulations to provide an earthy, green note that adds depth and realism to compositions. It is often used in perfumes, air fresheners, and personal care products. The compound functions as a modifier, enhancing the naturalness of floral and green fragrance families. Typical concentrations in fragrance products are low, often less than 0.1%, due to its potent odor. It contributes primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, 1-octen-3-ol is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned an FL number. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, 1-octen-3-ol is generally accepted for use in flavors, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR also permit its use, aligning with international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

1-octen-3-ol is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications at typical exposure levels. For oral exposure, the compound has a high margin of safety, with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, the risk profiles for food and fragrance applications are similar, with no significant safety concerns identified.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

1-octen-3-ol is valued for its ability to impart a natural mushroom note, enhancing the authenticity of savory flavors. It synergizes well with other earthy and green notes, such as those from hexanal or cis-3-hexenol. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering metallic note. It is often under-used in complex flavor systems where its subtlety can enhance overall realism.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 1-octen-3-ol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and safety profiles documented in the literature. Industry practices are consistent with documented use levels and safety assessments. However, specific regulatory nuances in certain regions may require further verification.

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 2026-04-22 08:31:23 GMT (p2)