FlavScents AInsights Entry for 1-penten-3-ol (CAS: 616-25-1)
1. Identity & Chemical Information
1-penten-3-ol, also known as pent-1-en-3-ol, is a chemical compound with the CAS number 616-25-1. It is identified by the IUPAC name 1-penten-3-ol. The molecular formula for 1-penten-3-ol is C5H10O, and it has a molecular weight of 86.13 g/mol. This compound features an alcohol functional group, which contributes to its characteristic odor profile. The presence of the double bond in its structure is significant for its reactivity and sensory attributes, influencing its volatility and odor perception.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA
2. Sensory Profile
1-penten-3-ol is characterized by its fresh, green, and slightly fruity odor, often described as reminiscent of cut grass or green leaves. It has a moderate intensity and is typically used as a modifier in fragrance compositions to impart a natural, green note. The odor threshold for 1-penten-3-ol is not well-documented, but it is generally considered to have a noticeable impact at low concentrations. In flavor applications, it can contribute to the freshness and authenticity of fruit and vegetable profiles.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature
3. Natural Occurrence & Formation
1-penten-3-ol is naturally found in various plants and fruits, contributing to their characteristic aromas. It can be formed through enzymatic degradation of fatty acids or as a byproduct of the Maillard reaction during food processing. Its presence in natural sources supports its designation as a "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" component, depending on the context of its use and extraction method.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs
4. Use in Flavors
In flavor applications, 1-penten-3-ol is used to enhance the freshness and authenticity of fruit and vegetable flavors. It is commonly found in flavor formulations for products like beverages, confectionery, and savory items. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 0.1 to 5 ppm, depending on the desired intensity and the specific application. It is relatively stable under normal processing conditions but may degrade under high heat or acidic environments.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature
5. Use in Fragrances
1-penten-3-ol is utilized in fragrance compositions to impart a fresh, green note, often used in perfumes, personal care products, and household cleaners. It serves as a modifier or impact note, enhancing the naturalness of floral and green fragrance families. Typical concentration ranges in fragrance formulations are from 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the desired effect. Its volatility allows it to contribute primarily to the top notes of a fragrance.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts
6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)
In the United States, 1-penten-3-ol is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FEMA for use in flavors. In the European Union, it is regulated under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 and has an assigned FL number. The regulatory status in the United Kingdom aligns with the EU post-Brexit. In Asia, including Japan and China, and in Latin America, such as Brazil and MERCOSUR, it is generally accepted for use in flavors and fragrances, though specific regulations may vary.
Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications
7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations
For oral exposure, 1-penten-3-ol is considered safe at typical flavor use levels, with no specific ADI or MSDI established. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications is generally safe, with low potential for irritation or sensitization, as per IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, but occupational exposure should be managed with standard safety practices. 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
1-penten-3-ol is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, green note, enhancing the naturalness of both flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other green and fruity notes, but care should be taken to avoid overuse, which can lead to an overly sharp or synthetic character. It is often under-utilized in complex formulations where its subtlety can be overshadowed by more dominant notes.
Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice
9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes
The data on 1-penten-3-ol is well-established, with consistent sensory and regulatory information available. While specific numeric thresholds are not always documented, industry practices provide reliable guidance for its use. Known data gaps include detailed toxicological studies and comprehensive sensory thresholds, which formulators should consider when developing new products.
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 2026-04-11 21:09:55 GMT (p2)