# (s1)-methoxy-3-heptanethiol

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/s1-methoxy-3-heptanethiol
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/s1-methoxy-3-heptanethiol.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 400052-49-5
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

(S1)-Methoxy-3-heptanethiol is a synthetic flavoring compound used to create savory and meaty flavor profiles in processed foods. It functions as a flavoring agent or adjuvant to enhance taste and aroma in food products.

## 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 (S1)-Methoxy-3-heptanethiol?

(S1)-Methoxy-3-heptanethiol is a synthetic organic compound classified as a flavoring agent. It is identified by CAS Number 400052-49-5 and belongs to the class of sulfur-containing flavor compounds. The molecule contains both a methoxy group and a thiol (sulfur-containing) group, which contribute to its distinctive sensory properties. Thiol-containing compounds are known for producing meaty, savory, and cooked food aromas, making them valuable in the flavor industry.

## Common Uses

This flavoring compound is used in small quantities in processed food applications where savory, meaty, or umami-like flavor enhancement is desired. Typical uses include:

- Meat and poultry flavoring systems
- Savory snack seasonings
- Processed meat products
- Soup and broth flavor bases
- Cheese and dairy product flavoring
- Ready-to-eat meal components

Like most synthetic flavoring agents, (S1)-methoxy-3-heptanethiol is used at very low concentrations, typically measured in parts per million (ppm), to achieve the desired sensory effect.

## Safety Assessment

As of current FDA records, there are no reported adverse events associated with (S1)-methoxy-3-heptanethiol, and no food recalls have been linked to this compound. However, it is important to note that this substance has not been granted Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status by the FDA, indicating that it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process.

The lack of GRAS status means the additive operates under FDA regulations for food additives and may require FDA approval or authorization before use in food products. Manufacturers using this compound must ensure compliance with applicable food additive regulations in their respective markets.

The thiol group present in this molecule is chemically stable under typical food processing and storage conditions, suggesting low likelihood of forming harmful degradation products. However, comprehensive toxicological studies specific to this compound are not widely published in public databases.

## Regulatory Status

(S1)-Methoxy-3-heptanethiol is not on the FDA's GRAS list. In the United States, its use in food products requires appropriate regulatory authorization. The compound may be permitted under FDA Food Additive Regulations if it has received approval through the food additive petition process, or it may be used in flavoring systems that are themselves approved.

Regulatory status varies by region. Manufacturers exporting products containing this flavoring must verify compliance with regulations in the European Union, Canada, Japan, and other jurisdictions where their products are sold. The EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) maintains separate approval lists for flavoring compounds used in European markets.

## Key Studies

Published scientific literature specifically evaluating (S1)-methoxy-3-heptanethiol is limited in publicly available databases. The compound appears to be used primarily in commercial flavor formulations without extensive publication of independent safety studies.

General safety data on similar thiol-containing flavor compounds suggests these molecules are metabolized efficiently by the body and do not accumulate in tissues. The absence of adverse event reports and recalls, combined with its use at minimal concentrations in finished food products, suggests low acute toxicity risk at intended use levels.

Flavor industry research indicates that sulfur-containing flavor compounds in this class undergo rapid biotransformation and elimination, consistent with the safety profile of approved similar compounds. However, specific absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) studies for this particular molecule have not been located in standard scientific databases.

## 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. "(s1)-methoxy-3-heptanethiol — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/s1-methoxy-3-heptanethiol. Accessed 2026-05-19.