The volatile components of cucumbers and muskmelons were analyzed by a technique which reveals the odorants having the highest odor units (ratio of the concentration to the odor threshold). (E/Z)‐2,6‐Nonadienal, followed by (Z)‐2‐nonenal and (E)‐2‐nonenal were the most significant odorants of cucumbers. The flavor of muskmelons was more complex. Methyl 2‐methylbutanoate, (Z)‐3‐hexenal, (E)‐2‐hexenal, and ethyl 2‐methylpropanoate were identified as the primary odorants. Copyright © 1990, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved