A compound of the formula I in which X and Y are selected as follows: (i) X is H and Y is selected from the group consisting of (ii) X and Y together form a bivalent radical selected from the group consisting of —O—CH2—O—, —N═CH—O— and —N═CH—S— thus forming together with the carbon atoms to which the radical is attached a 5-membered ring. The compounds have cooling properties and are useful in, for example, foodstuffs, dentifrices and cosmetics.