# (e)-3,7-dimethyl-1,5,7-octatrien-3-ol

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/e-3-7-dimethyl-1-5-7-octatrien-3-ol.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 29171-20-8
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

(E)-3,7-dimethyl-1,5,7-octatrien-3-ol is a naturally occurring terpene alcohol used as a flavoring agent in food products. It contributes fruity and floral aromatic notes to beverages, confections, and other food applications.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is (E)-3,7-dimethyl-1,5,7-octatrien-3-ol?

(E)-3,7-dimethyl-1,5,7-octatrien-3-ol, also known as linalool or 2,6-dimethyl-2,7-octadien-6-ol in some nomenclature systems, is a naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol found in various plant sources. This compound features a characteristic molecular structure with three carbon-carbon double bonds and a hydroxyl group, giving it distinct aromatic properties. The substance exists naturally in essential oils of lavender, basil, coriander, and other botanical sources.

## Common Uses

This flavoring agent is utilized primarily in the food and beverage industry to impart fruity, floral, and herbal taste and aroma profiles. Common applications include:

- Flavored beverages and soft drinks
- Confectionery and candy products
- Dairy-based foods
- Baked goods and snack foods
- Alcoholic beverages
- Flavoring compositions for processed foods

The compound typically appears in formulations at low concentrations, where it functions as part of complex flavor systems designed to replicate natural fruit and plant flavors.

## Safety Assessment

The FDA has not granted GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status to this specific chemical formulation. However, this designation does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it reflects that formal GRAS review through the FDA's petition process has not been completed or submitted.

Relevant safety data points:

- Zero adverse events have been reported to the FDA
- No FDA recalls are associated with this additive
- The compound has been evaluated in various toxicology studies examining acute and subchronic effects
- Dermal and inhalation exposure data exist from occupational and consumer product studies
- The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated structurally related flavoring compounds

Toxicological studies on linalool and related compounds have generally examined oral intake, dermal absorption, and respiratory exposure. Standard safety parameters including LD50 values and organ toxicity assessments have been conducted. The primary metabolic pathway involves conjugation reactions in the liver, with metabolites excreted through urine.

## Regulatory Status

Regulatory treatment varies internationally:

- **United States**: Not on the FDA's GRAS list; requires compliance with food additive regulations if used
- **European Union**: Similar compounds have undergone EFSA evaluation under the flavoring regulation framework
- **Japan**: Evaluated under existing flavor regulations

Manufacturers using this substance in food products must ensure compliance with applicable food safety regulations in their target markets. The absence of GRAS status means any use would typically require proper food additive approval pathways.

## Key Studies

Scientific literature examining linalool and structurally similar compounds includes:

- Toxicology studies evaluating acute oral toxicity in animal models
- Dermal penetration studies relevant to cosmetic and food contact applications
- Metabolism studies characterizing hepatic biotransformation
- Studies on allergenicity and sensitization potential from fragrance research
- Research on natural occurrence in food sources and consumption levels

Peer-reviewed journals including Food and Chemical Toxicology and Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology contain relevant studies. However, specific comprehensive toxicology data exclusively on this CAS number formulation may be limited compared to broader linalool research.

The absence of reported adverse events and FDA recalls provides reassurance regarding practical safety in current food applications, though the lack of GRAS status indicates the regulatory pathway remains incomplete.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "(e)-3,7-dimethyl-1,5,7-octatrien-3-ol — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/e-3-7-dimethyl-1-5-7-octatrien-3-ol. Accessed 2026-05-19.