# (r)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/r-1-octen-3-ol.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 3687-48-7
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

(R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol is a naturally occurring organic compound used as a flavoring agent in food products. It imparts mushroom and earthy notes and is approved for use in various food applications where it enhances flavor profiles.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## What is (R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol?

(R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol, identified by CAS Number 3687-48-7, is an eight-carbon unsaturated alcohol classified as a flavoring agent. The compound exists naturally in various foods including mushrooms, where it contributes to characteristic earthy and umami-like flavors. The (R)-(-) designation indicates the specific stereochemical configuration of the molecule, which is important for its flavor properties and biological activity.

## Common Uses

This flavoring compound is utilized primarily in the food industry to add mushroom-like, earthy, and savory notes to prepared foods. Common applications include:

- Savory snack seasonings and flavoring blends
- Processed meat products
- Soup and broth flavoring systems
- Cheese and dairy product flavoring
- Condiments and sauces
- Plant-based meat alternatives

The compound's ability to mimic natural mushroom flavors makes it particularly valuable in formulations where mushroom flavor is desired but fresh mushrooms are impractical or cost-prohibitive.

## Safety Assessment

No adverse events have been reported to the FDA regarding (R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol, and no recalls involving this additive have been issued. The compound has not been formally evaluated through the FDA's Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) petition process, though it occurs naturally in food sources.

The absence of reported adverse events and recalls suggests a favorable safety profile in current use. However, safety assessment data from independent toxicological studies and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) should be consulted for comprehensive evaluation. Like all flavoring agents, typical use levels are very low—typically in the parts per million range—which significantly reduces potential exposure concerns.

The naturally occurring nature of this compound in mushrooms and other foods indicates it has been consumed safely for extended periods, though the synthetic versions used in food manufacturing should meet the same purity and identity standards as naturally derived forms.

## Regulatory Status

(R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol is not currently listed on the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) inventory. However, this does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it means the formal GRAS affirmation petition process has not been completed or submitted to the FDA.

The regulatory classification may vary by country. In the European Union, flavoring substances are subject to evaluation by the EFSA Panel on Food Contact Materials, Enzymes, Flavourings and Processing Aids (CEF). International food standards bodies including the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) may also provide guidance on acceptable use levels and safety parameters.

Manufacturers using this additive should verify compliance with specific regulations in their target markets, as flavoring compound approvals vary significantly between jurisdictions.

## Key Studies

Limited published toxicological literature is readily available for (R)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol specifically, compared to more extensively studied food additives. The compound's natural occurrence in foods suggests acceptable safety margins under normal use conditions.

Further information regarding absorption, metabolism, and potential effects would be found in proprietary safety dossiers submitted during regulatory approval processes. The absence of adverse event reports despite its use in commercial food products suggests adequate safety margins exist at approved use levels.

Consumers seeking additional safety information may request supporting documentation from food manufacturers or regulatory agencies in their respective countries.

## 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. "(r)-(-)-1-octen-3-ol — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/r-1-octen-3-ol. Accessed 2026-05-20.