FlavScents AInsights Entry for (Z)-2-hexen-1-ol (CAS: 928-94-9)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): (Z)-2-hexen-1-ol, Leaf alcohol
• IUPAC Name: (Z)-hex-2-en-1-ol
• CAS Number: 928-94-9
• FEMA Number: 2560
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 02.015
• Molecular Formula: C6H12O
• Molecular Weight: 100.16 g/mol

(Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is characterized by its unsaturated alcohol functional group, which contributes to its distinctive green, leafy odor. The presence of the double bond in the Z-configuration is crucial for its odor profile, distinguishing it from its E-isomer.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

(Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is known for its fresh, green, and leafy odor, reminiscent of freshly cut grass or leaves. It is often described as having a moderate intensity and is used to impart a natural, green note in both flavors and fragrances. The compound can also exhibit a slightly fruity undertone, enhancing its versatility in formulations. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, it is typically used in low concentrations due to its potent aroma.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

(Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is naturally found in a variety of plants, including tea leaves, mint, and certain fruits. It is often formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, particularly linolenic acid, during plant tissue damage. This compound is significant in the context of "natural flavor" designations, as it is commonly extracted from natural sources for use in flavor and fragrance applications.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, (Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is used to impart a fresh, green note, enhancing the authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors. It is commonly utilized in beverages, confectionery, and savory products. Typical use levels range from 0.1 to 5 ppm in finished products, with higher concentrations potentially leading to overpowering green notes. The compound is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic conditions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

(Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is employed in various fragrance families, including green, floral, and fruity compositions. It serves as a modifier or impact note, providing freshness and naturalness to perfumes, personal care products, and household items. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.5% in formulations, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility places it primarily in the top note category, contributing to the initial impression of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL No. 02.015.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific restrictions varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted, with specific regulations in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries.

Explicit approvals and harmonized assumptions are common, though country-specific variations may exist.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, (Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is considered safe at typical use levels, with no specific ADI established but generally recognized as safe under FEMA GRAS. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally low-risk, with minimal reports of irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is primarily relevant in occupational settings, where adequate ventilation is recommended to minimize risk. Overall, the risk profiles are similar between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

(Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, natural green note, enhancing the realism of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and floral compounds but can be overpowering if overused. Formulators should be cautious of its volatility and potential degradation under extreme conditions. It is often underutilized in complex formulations where subtlety is required.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on (Z)-2-hexen-1-ol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific numeric thresholds for sensory perception are less frequently reported. Regulatory ambiguities are minimal, with harmonized guidelines across major regions.

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 2026-03-21 07:43:20 GMT (p2)