What is Methyl Cis-5-octenoate?
Methyl cis-5-octenoate (CAS Number: 41654-15-3) is a naturally-derived organic ester compound belonging to the class of volatile flavor compounds. It is characterized by a cis double bond at the 5-position of an 8-carbon chain with a methyl ester functional group. This structural configuration gives the compound distinct sensory properties that food manufacturers utilize in flavoring applications.
Common Uses
Methyl cis-5-octenoate is used primarily as a flavoring agent and flavor adjuvant in the food industry. It contributes fruity, fresh, and slightly green notes to food products. Common applications include:
- Beverages (juices, soft drinks, flavored waters)
- Dairy products (yogurts, flavored milks)
- Confectionery and baked goods
- Processed fruits and fruit preparations
- Flavor compound blends for commercial food manufacturing
The compound is typically used in very small concentrations, measured in parts per million (ppm), to achieve the desired sensory effect without overwhelming other flavor components.
Safety Assessment
Methyl cis-5-octenoate has not been formally designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, which means it has not undergone the specific GRAS affirmation process. However, this classification does not indicate a safety concern; rather, it reflects the regulatory pathway and extent of formal FDA review the additive has received.
According to available FDA records, there are zero recorded adverse events associated with this additive and zero recalls linked to its use. This absence of reported safety incidents suggests that if the compound is being used in food products, it has not raised consumer health or safety complaints sufficient to trigger regulatory action or recall activity.
The compound's structure is consistent with other volatile esters used in food flavoring, which have been extensively studied and are generally recognized as safe at levels used in food applications. As an ester, methyl cis-5-octenoate would be expected to undergo hydrolysis in the digestive tract, similar to other food esters.
Regulatory Status
In the United States, methyl cis-5-octenoate's regulatory status requires clarification. While not GRAS-affirmed, it may be used under FDA regulations for flavor compounds, depending on its application and the intended food category. Manufacturers using this additive must comply with applicable food additive regulations and labeling requirements.
International regulatory approaches vary. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) maintains detailed databases of approved flavoring substances under Regulation (EC) No. 1334/2008. The specific approval status in European markets would depend on whether this compound appears on relevant flavor registers.
Food manufacturers using methyl cis-5-octenoate should verify current regulatory requirements in their target markets, as flavor regulations are subject to periodic updates and may vary by country or region.
Key Studies
Limited published scientific literature is readily available specifically addressing this compound's safety profile. The absence of formal GRAS determination and the lack of noted adverse events suggest either limited historical use in the U.S. food supply or use at levels considered inherently safe based on structural similarity to established food ingredients.
For manufacturers seeking comprehensive safety data, toxicological studies and metabolism information for similar volatile ester compounds provide relevant reference points. Standard toxicological testing protocols for flavor compounds would include acute toxicity, subacute studies, and metabolic fate assessments.
Any organization considering the use of this flavoring should conduct appropriate due diligence, including review of relevant scientific literature, consultation with flavor industry databases, and verification of regulatory compliance in intended markets.