Fusel alcohols(8013-75-0), also sometimes called fusel oils, or potato oil in Europe, are higher-order alcohols (that is, alcohols with more than two carbon atoms) formed by fermentation and present in cider, mead, beer, wine, and spirits to varying degrees.
Fusel oil(8013-75-0) has a high degree of FUSEL OIL composition containing various alcohols. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. Alcohols exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides.

FUSEL OIL(8013-75-0) is reported in EPA TSCA Inventory.

1、May contain carcinogens. Experimental reproductive effects. Mutation data reported. Flammable liquid when exposed to heat or flame; can react vigorously with oxidizing materials. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes.
2、Excessive concentrations of these fractions may cause off flavours, sometimes described as "spicy," "hot," or "solvent-like." In some beverages, such as vodka and lagers, the presence of fusel alcohols is considered a fault. Very high concentrations — usually caused by incompetent distillation — can cause acute illness, including headaches, nausea, vomiting, or coma.

DOT Classification:  3; Label: Flammable Liquid

Formation and removal of FUSEL OIL
During distillation, fusel alcohols are concentrated in the "tails" at the end of the distillation run. They have an oily consistency, which is noticeable to the distiller, hence the other name "fusel oil". If desired, these heavier alcohols can be almost completely separated in a reflux still. Freeze distillation, on the other hand, does not remove fusel alcohols.