A compound is provided of Formula (I) wherein R1 represents a C3 to C20 hydrocarbon group derived from an alcohol of formula R1OH, from a formate of formula R1OCH═O, or a cinnamyl aldehyde of Formula (II) wherein a compound of Formula I is capable of releasing a compound, when oxidized, selected from the group consisting of a fragrant alcohol of formula R1OH, a fragrant formate ester of formula R1OCH═O and aryl aldehyde of Formula (III) wherein R2 is, independently, hydrogen atom, hydroxyl group, optionally substituted C1-C6 alkyl group, C1-C6 alkoxy group, or —O(C═O)CH(CH3)2 wherein any two of R2 may form an optionally substituted 5 or 6 membered ring. The compounds are useful for example as a precursor for the prolonged delivery or release of fragrant compounds such as fragrant alcohols, fragrant aldehydes or fragrant formates.