What is Cis-5-octen-1-ol?
Cis-5-octen-1-ol is an eight-carbon unsaturated alcohol with the chemical formula C8H14O. Its structure contains a double bond between the 5th and 6th carbon atoms in the cis configuration, which contributes to its distinctive aromatic properties. This compound is classified as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant under food additive regulations. The compound has the CAS Registry Number 64275-73-6.
Cis-5-octen-1-ol occurs naturally in small quantities in various fruits and plant materials, where it contributes to their natural aroma profiles. Due to its sensory properties, it has been synthesized for use in food manufacturing.
Common Uses
Cis-5-octen-1-ol functions primarily as a flavoring agent in the food industry. It is used in beverages, confectionery, baked goods, dairy products, and other processed foods where fruity or floral flavor enhancement is desired. The compound typically appears in formulations at very low concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), because of its potent aromatic characteristics.
Flavorings containing this compound contribute to sensory appeal and help food manufacturers create consistent flavor profiles across product batches. It may appear in complex flavor formulations rather than as a stand-alone ingredient.
Safety Assessment
Cis-5-octen-1-ol has not been evaluated for GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status by the FDA. However, no adverse events have been reported to the FDA regarding this substance, and no food recalls have been associated with its use in the United States.
The lack of GRAS status means the compound cannot be used in food under the GRAS exemption pathway but may be used under other regulatory provisions depending on jurisdiction. The absence of reported adverse events and recalls suggests that current use levels in food products have not generated safety concerns in the post-market surveillance system.
As a naturally occurring compound found in foods, cis-5-octen-1-ol shares chemical similarity with other food-grade alcohols and esters. However, the specific toxicological profile of this compound at food-use concentrations remains limited in publicly available scientific literature.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, cis-5-octen-1-ol is not listed as a GRAS substance, which restricts its use to specific regulatory pathways if employed at all. Some manufacturers may use it under color additive petitions, food additive petitions, or as a component of approved flavor mixtures, depending on the specific application and regulatory framework.
Regulatory approval varies by country. Some jurisdictions may permit its use under general flavoring regulations or natural flavoring provisions, while others may have different approval statuses. Manufacturers must verify compliance with regulations in their specific market.
The FDA's Color Additives Status List and Inventory of Effective Food Additive Regulations would be the relevant regulatory references for current approved uses in the United States.
Key Studies
Published scientific literature specifically examining cis-5-octen-1-ol toxicity at food-use concentrations is limited. Most information about this compound derives from:
- Chemical and sensory characterization studies identifying it as a natural constituent in fruits and plant volatiles
- Flavor research documenting its aromatic properties and use in fragrance applications
- General safety data for structurally similar eight-carbon alcohols
The lack of reported adverse events or recalls suggests adequate safety margins in current food applications, though comprehensive toxicological studies at relevant food-use levels would provide additional confidence in its safety profile.
Consumers seeking more information about this additive in specific products should consult product labels and contact manufacturers directly, as it typically appears as part of complex flavor systems rather than as an individually listed ingredient.