Chemical Properties
3-Mercapto-2-methylpentan-1-ol (racemic) is a highly odorous mercaptan with an onion or leek-like aroma. Flavor
quality was reported to strongly depend on concentration.
Occurrence
Reportedly present in onion.
Preparation
Prepared by a highly diastereoselective aldol reaction using a chiral auxiliary process with further derivatization yielding
the enantiopure compound.
Definition
ChEBI: 3-Mercapto-2-methylpentanol is an alkanethiol.
Aroma threshold values
At low concentrations (0.5 ppb), a pleasant, meat-broth, sweaty, onion and leek-like odor can be perceived.
