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. It is identified by the CAS number 3391-86-4. The FEMA number for 1-octen-3-ol is 3517. Other identifiers include its FL number 02.015 and CoE number 246. The molecular formula is C8H16O, and it has a molecular weight of 128.21 g/mol. Structurally, 1-octen-3-ol is characterized by an alcohol functional group and a double bond, which contribute to its distinctive mushroom-like odor. The presence of the hydroxyl group is crucial for its solubility and reactivity in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

1-octen-3-ol is renowned for its strong, earthy, and mushroom-like odor, often described as green and slightly metallic. It is a significant impact note in mushroom flavors and is used to impart a fresh, natural character to various flavor profiles. The odor threshold of 1-octen-3-ol is relatively low, making it effective even at minimal concentrations. Its sensory role is primarily as an impact note, providing authenticity and depth to flavor compositions.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

1-octen-3-ol is naturally found in a variety of sources, including mushrooms, certain fruits, and vegetables. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of linoleic acid, a process that occurs in fungi and plants. This compound is significant in the designation of "natural flavor" due to its widespread occurrence in nature and its derivation from natural enzymatic processes.

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

4. Use in Flavors

In flavor applications, 1-octen-3-ol is utilized across various categories, including savory, mushroom, and green vegetable flavors. It serves as a functional impact note, enhancing the authenticity and complexity of flavor systems. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 10 ppm, with industry-typical levels around 1-5 ppm. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but can be susceptible to oxidation, which may alter its sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

1-octen-3-ol is employed in fragrance formulations, particularly within the green and earthy fragrance families. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the realism and freshness of the fragrance. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance products are from trace amounts up to 0.5%. Due to its volatility, 1-octen-3-ol is primarily a top note, providing an initial burst of freshness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

In the United States, 1-octen-3-ol is recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use. In the European Union, it is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and assigned the FL number 02.015. The United Kingdom follows similar regulations post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, it is generally accepted for use in flavors, though specific regulations may vary. In Latin America, countries like Brazil and those in MERCOSUR typically align with international standards, but local regulations should be verified.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

For oral exposure, 1-octen-3-ol is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with an acceptable daily intake (ADI) not specifically established but deemed low risk under GRAS conditions. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. IFRA guidelines should be consulted for specific use restrictions. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be monitored to prevent irritation.

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, earthy character to both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and mushroom notes, enhancing overall complexity. Formulators should be cautious of its strong impact, as overuse can lead to an overpowering or metallic note. It is often under-utilized in non-traditional applications, where it can add unexpected depth.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on 1-octen-3-ol is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific use levels may vary. Some data gaps exist in regional regulatory specifics, necessitating verification for compliance in certain markets.

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 2026-06-08 15:40:37 GMT (p2)