4-Hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone (CAS 0591-12-8) — Sweet Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Sweet · Floral

4-Hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone

CAS 0591-12-8

Origin
synthetic
Note
Heart
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is 4-Hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone?

4-Hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient often found in fruity or creamy perfumes. It adds a subtle lactonic nuance that enhances gourmand and floral compositions. This molecule matters because it mimics natural fruit lactones at a fraction of the cost, making luxury accords more accessible while ensuring consistent quality.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ IFRA compliant at standard usage levels
⚠ Potential sensitizer at high concentrations
CAS
0591-12-8
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Sweet · Floral
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does 4-Hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone Smell Like?

A warm, creamy-lactonic note reminiscent of baked peaches and coconut flesh, with a subtle woody undertone. The scent evolves from an initial fruity burst to a soft, skin-like muskiness over hours. Imagine the olfactory transition from a ripe mango’s first cut to the comforting aroma of sun-warmed hay.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

This γ-lactone belongs to the class of aliphatic hydroxy acids. While similar structures occur naturally in fruits like peaches and coconuts, the commercial material is synthesized via esterification followed by intramolecular cyclization. The molecule’s stereochemistry significantly impacts its odor profile, with the (R)-enantiomer being more potent.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight114.14 g/mol
Boiling Point~210 °C (estimated)

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Heart
Volatility
Medium (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds creaminess
Body Care0.1-1%Up to 3%Skin-similar musky effects

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with ionones to create peach-apricot illusions without fruity top notes.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
γ-Decalactone CAS 706-14-9

For stronger peach effects with higher tenacity.

2
δ-Undecalactone CAS 710-04-3

Provides more pronounced coconut-milk character.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

Not currently restricted by IFRA. Monitoring under Amendment 51.

RIFM Assessment

Under review by RIFM for potential sensitization thresholds.

Sustainability

Synthetic production avoids agricultural land use and seasonal variability. The manufacturing process employs green chemistry principles with >80% atom economy. Biodegradability studies show complete breakdown within 28 days under OECD 301 conditions.

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References

  1. PubChem CID: 135743 PubChem
  2. Frater et al. (1998). Helv. Chim. Acta

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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