FlavScents AInsights Entry for WS-3 (CAS: 39711-79-0)

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): WS-3
• IUPAC Name: N-Ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide
• CAS Number: 39711-79-0
• FEMA Number: 3455
• Other Identifiers: FL Number 02.078
• Molecular Formula: C13H25NO
• Molecular Weight: 211.35 g/mol

WS-3 is a synthetic cooling agent known for its menthol-like cooling effect without the minty odor. It belongs to the class of carboxamides, which are characterized by their ability to provide a cooling sensation. The structure of WS-3 includes a menthane backbone, which is crucial for its sensory properties.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

WS-3 is primarily recognized for its cooling sensation, which is similar to menthol but without the associated minty aroma. It provides a long-lasting cooling effect that is perceived as smooth and non-irritating. The cooling intensity of WS-3 is moderate, making it suitable for applications where a subtle cooling effect is desired. The taste threshold for WS-3 is relatively low, allowing it to be effective at low concentrations.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

WS-3 is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis, typically involving the reaction of menthane derivatives with ethylamine. As a synthetic cooling agent, WS-3 is not classified as a "natural flavor" under regulatory definitions, but it is widely accepted in flavor and fragrance formulations due to its efficacy and safety profile.

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

4. Use in Flavors

WS-3 is used in a variety of flavor applications, including confectionery, chewing gum, oral care products, and beverages. It serves as a cooling agent, enhancing the sensory experience by providing a refreshing sensation. Typical use levels in finished products range from 10 to 100 ppm, depending on the desired intensity of the cooling effect. WS-3 is stable under a wide range of pH conditions and is resistant to heat, making it suitable for various processing environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In fragrance applications, WS-3 is used to impart a cooling sensation, often in personal care products such as lotions, creams, and deodorants. It is valued for its ability to enhance the freshness of a fragrance without altering the overall scent profile. WS-3 is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1% in fragrance formulations. Its volatility is moderate, contributing primarily to the top and middle notes of a fragrance.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: WS-3 is approved for use as a flavoring agent under FEMA GRAS status.
• European Union: Listed under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with an assigned FL number.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific usage guidelines.
• Latin America: Recognized under MERCOSUR regulations, with country-specific approvals.

WS-3 is generally regarded as safe across major markets, with harmonized assumptions in place for its use in both flavors and fragrances.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

WS-3 is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications. Oral exposure through flavor use is supported by an acceptable daily intake (ADI) established by FEMA. Dermal exposure in fragrance use is generally well-tolerated, with low potential for irritation or sensitization. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility. Overall, WS-3 has a favorable safety profile, with no significant differences in risk between food and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

WS-3 is valued for its ability to provide a cooling sensation without the minty aroma of menthol. It synergizes well with other cooling agents like WS-23 and menthol, enhancing the overall cooling effect. Formulators should be mindful of its concentration to avoid overpowering the product's flavor or fragrance profile. WS-3 is often under-used in applications where a subtle cooling effect could enhance consumer experience.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on WS-3 is well-established, with comprehensive documentation available from authoritative sources. Industry practices are consistent with documented guidelines, although some regional regulatory nuances may exist. No significant data gaps or ambiguities are noted.

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 for WS-3)

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 2026-05-18 16:13:51 GMT (p2)