What is (E)-2-octen-4-ol?
(E)-2-octen-4-ol, also known by its CAS number 20125-81-9, is an eight-carbon unsaturated alcohol with a double bond in the E (trans) configuration. This colorless to pale yellow liquid exists naturally in various fruits and plants, where it contributes to their characteristic aromas. The compound belongs to the class of organic compounds known as secondary alcohols and is structurally related to other naturally-occurring flavor compounds found in citrus fruits, berries, and vegetables.
Common Uses
(E)-2-octen-4-ol is primarily used as a flavoring agent or flavoring adjuvant in the food and beverage industry. Its fruity, slightly floral aroma profile makes it valuable in formulating complex flavor compositions for products such as beverages, confectionery, baked goods, and dairy products. The compound is typically used at very low concentrations—measured in parts per million—to achieve desired sensory characteristics without affecting the nutritional profile of food products.
Safety Assessment
According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with (E)-2-octen-4-ol and zero product recalls linked to this ingredient. The compound's safety profile is supported by its natural occurrence in food sources and its use as a minor flavoring component at extremely low application rates typical of flavor chemistry.
As a secondary alcohol with relatively simple molecular structure, (E)-2-octen-4-ol does not present obvious chemical hazards associated with more complex synthetic additives. The absence of reported safety incidents in FDA databases suggests no acute toxicological concerns from food consumption. However, comprehensive chronic toxicity studies specific to this individual compound appear limited in published scientific literature.
Regulatory Status
(E)-2-octen-4-ol is not listed on the FDA's "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) list. This designation does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it reflects that the compound has not undergone the formal GRAS petition and approval process with the FDA. Many flavoring compounds operate in food without GRAS status through industry self-determination under 21 CFR 170.235, provided manufacturers have sufficient data supporting safe use at intended levels.
The compound may be approved or recognized in other regulatory jurisdictions including the European Union's flavor regulation systems. Manufacturers using this ingredient in food products are responsible for maintaining documentation supporting its safe use, including specifications, identity confirmation, and usage level justification.
Key Studies
Published scientific literature specifically examining (E)-2-octen-4-ol toxicology or safety is limited in public databases. The compound's safety profile relies substantially on structural analogy to other approved flavor alcohols, its natural occurrence in foods at trace levels, and the absence of reported adverse health outcomes associated with its use in commercial food products.
Flavor chemistry research has documented the natural presence of this compound in various food matrices, including fruits and fermented products, supporting its characterization as a naturally-occurring flavor component. The low concentrations used in flavoring applications—typically less than 10 ppm in finished products—further support safe use profiles established for similar secondary alcohol flavoring agents.
Manufacturers seeking to use (E)-2-octen-4-ol are encouraged to consult current food safety regulations in their jurisdictions and maintain comprehensive safety documentation for regulatory compliance.