What is (E)-3-(Z)-6-nonadien-1-ol?
(E)-3-(Z)-6-nonadien-1-ol, identified by CAS Number 56805-23-3, is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the family of unsaturated alcohols. This nine-carbon molecule contains two double bonds in different geometric configurations—one in the E (trans) configuration and one in the Z (cis) configuration—which give it distinctive sensory properties. The compound is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, green, and slightly herbal aroma profile.
Common Uses
This flavoring agent is primarily used in the fragrance and flavor industries to create fruity and green notes in beverages, confectionery, and other food products. Its aromatic profile makes it valuable for formulating flavoring compounds that target specific taste and smell experiences. The compound is used at very low concentrations, typically measured in parts per million (ppm), to achieve desired sensory effects without contributing nutritional value.
Safety Assessment
While comprehensive toxicological data on (E)-3-(Z)-6-nonadien-1-ol is limited in the public domain, the available evidence does not indicate significant safety concerns. The FDA has not received any adverse event reports associated with this additive, and there are no documented recalls linked to its use. However, it is important to note that the absence of reported adverse events does not necessarily indicate extensive safety testing has been completed and published.
As with many synthetic flavor compounds, safety assessments typically consider acute toxicity, potential allergenicity, and metabolic pathways. The compound's structure—a simple unsaturated alcohol—suggests it would follow conventional metabolic processes in the body, though specific metabolism studies are not widely available in public literature.
Regulatory Status
(E)-3-(Z)-6-nonadien-1-ol is not on the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) list, meaning it has not been designated as safe for use in food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration under the standard regulatory pathway. This does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it indicates that formal GRAS approval or food additive petition approval has not been obtained in the United States.
Regulatory status varies internationally. Different countries and regions—including the European Union, Japan, and others—maintain separate approval lists for food additives and flavoring agents. The compound may be approved or permitted in some jurisdictions while remaining unapproved in others. Users and manufacturers should verify local and regional regulations before use.
Key Studies
Published scientific literature specifically addressing the safety of (E)-3-(Z)-6-nonadien-1-ol is limited. Most information comes from flavor industry databases and regulatory submissions rather than independent peer-reviewed research. The compound is structurally similar to other naturally occurring and synthetic unsaturated alcohols used in flavoring, which may inform general safety assessments.
The International Organization of the Flavor Industry (IOFI) and flavor ingredient suppliers maintain proprietary data on this and similar compounds, though detailed studies are not always publicly accessible. Any manufacturer considering use of this additive should consult technical data sheets, safety summaries, and current regulatory guidance for their specific market.
Because the FDA has not received adverse event reports and no recalls have been issued, the available surveillance data suggests this compound has not been associated with recognized safety issues in food applications. However, the lack of extensive public research means comprehensive hazard characterization remains incomplete.