What is Cis-3-hexen-1-ol?
Cis-3-hexen-1-ol (CAS Number 928-96-1) is a six-carbon alcohol compound classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC). It occurs naturally in many plants and is a component of the characteristic aroma of fresh-cut grass and green leaves. The compound has a molecular formula of C6H12O and exists in different structural forms, with the cis-isomer being the predominant natural form. It is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature with a distinctive fresh, grassy odor profile.
Common Uses
Cis-3-hexen-1-ol is used as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry to impart fresh, green, and herbaceous notes. It is employed in products such as beverages, baked goods, confectionery, and dairy products where a fresh, natural flavor profile is desired. The compound's aromatic properties make it useful in creating flavor formulations that mimic the taste of fresh fruits and vegetables. It is also utilized in non-food applications including cosmetics and fragrances, where similar fresh and natural scent profiles are valued.
Safety Assessment
Cis-3-hexen-1-ol has not received FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation as a food additive. However, the absence of GRAS status does not inherently indicate unsafe use. The FDA has received zero adverse event reports associated with this compound, and there are no FDA recalls related to cis-3-hexen-1-ol. The compound's natural occurrence in foods and its volatile nature—meaning it readily evaporates—suggests a low accumulation potential in the body.
Toxicological studies on structurally similar compounds indicate that cis-3-hexen-1-ol exhibits low acute toxicity. Its widespread use in fragrance and flavor industries internationally suggests practical safety at typical use levels. The European Flavoring Regulation framework includes assessment of this type of compound, though regulatory classifications vary by region.
As a volatile compound, cis-3-hexen-1-ol has limited systemic absorption when used as a food flavoring due to its physical properties. The primary route of exposure is through olfactory sensation and oral consumption at trace levels. No significant bioaccumulation is expected based on the compound's chemical structure and volatility.
Regulatory Status
Cis-3-hexen-1-ol does not have FDA GRAS status in the United States, meaning it cannot be used as a direct food additive under the GRAS exemption. Any use in food products in the U.S. would require specific FDA authorization or approval through the food additive petition process. In the European Union, similar compounds are evaluated under the EU Flavouring Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008, which establishes rules for flavoring substances. The compound may be permitted in certain jurisdictions under different regulatory frameworks.
Manufacturers seeking to use this compound in food products should verify current regulatory status in their specific markets, as regulations vary significantly between countries and regions. The status of this additive should be confirmed with current regulatory guidance before use.
Key Studies
Limited published peer-reviewed studies specifically examine cis-3-hexen-1-ol in isolation as a food additive. Most relevant literature discusses the compound as a natural flavor constituent rather than as a regulated food additive. Research on related C6 alcohols and their sensory properties supports the understanding of this compound's flavor characteristics. Studies on volatile organic compounds in foods generally support low toxicity profiles for compounds with similar chemical structures and volatility characteristics. Additional research evaluating specific safety parameters at proposed use levels would provide further clarity on safety margins for food application.