FlavScents AInsights Entry for 2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol (CAS: 57124-87-5)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): 2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol
• IUPAC Name: 2-methyltetrahydrofuran-3-thiol
• CAS Number: 57124-87-5
• FEMA Number: Not available
• Other Identifiers: Not available
• Molecular Formula: C5H10OS
• Molecular Weight: 118.20 g/mol

2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is characterized by the presence of a thiol group, which is known to impart strong sulfurous odors. The compound's structure includes a tetrahydrofuran ring, which contributes to its unique odor profile. The thiol group is crucial for its odor characteristics, often described as reminiscent of grapefruit or tropical fruits.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is noted for its potent odor, often described as grapefruit-like with tropical nuances. It is a high-impact aroma compound, meaning even small concentrations can significantly influence the overall scent profile. The compound is typically used as an impact note in flavor formulations, providing a fresh, citrusy character. Specific odor thresholds are not well-documented, but its high potency suggests a low threshold.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

This compound is not widely reported in natural sources, but it can be formed through synthetic pathways involving the introduction of a thiol group to a tetrahydrofuran ring. Its presence in nature, if any, would likely be in trace amounts, making it more relevant to synthetic flavor and fragrance applications. It is not typically associated with "natural flavor" or "natural fragrance" designations due to its synthetic origins.

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

4. Use in Flavors

2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is primarily used in citrus and tropical fruit flavor formulations. It serves as an impact note, enhancing the freshness and authenticity of grapefruit and other citrus flavors. Typical use levels in finished food or beverage products are not well-documented, but industry practice suggests usage in the low ppm range due to its high potency. Stability considerations include sensitivity to oxidation, which can alter its sensory characteristics.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, 2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is used to impart a fresh, citrusy note, often in conjunction with other citrus or tropical elements. It is typically used in trace amounts due to its strong odor profile. The compound contributes primarily to the top notes of a fragrance, given its volatility. Concentration ranges are qualitative, with usage typically at very low levels to avoid overpowering other fragrance components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Not explicitly listed as FEMA GRAS; usage should be aligned with general safety guidelines for thiol compounds.
• European Union: Not specifically listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008; usage should comply with general safety standards.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit; no specific divergence noted.
• Asia: Limited specific regulatory information; general safety and usage guidelines apply.
• Latin America: No specific regulatory information available; general safety guidelines should be followed.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

• Oral Exposure: No specific ADI or MSDI values available; usage should be minimal due to high potency.
• Dermal Exposure: Potential for irritation or sensitization due to thiol group; IFRA guidelines should be consulted.
• Inhalation Exposure: High volatility suggests potential for inhalation exposure; occupational safety measures should be considered.

The risk profile may differ between food and fragrance applications, with dermal exposure being more relevant in fragrance use.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is valued for its ability to impart a fresh, authentic citrus note. It synergizes well with other citrus and tropical notes but can easily dominate a formulation if not used judiciously. Common pitfalls include overuse, leading to an overpowering sulfurous character. It is often under-utilized due to its potent nature and the challenges in balancing its impact.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

Data on 2-methyl-3-tetrahydrofuran thiol is limited, with much of its usage based on industry practice rather than documented studies. Regulatory and safety data are sparse, necessitating cautious use and adherence to general safety guidelines. Known data gaps include specific sensory thresholds and detailed regulatory approvals.

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 2026-09-24 07:15:53 GMT (p2)