CH₃SH, commonly known as methyl mercaptan, is a colorless gas with a strong, unpleasant odor reminiscent of rotten cabbage. It is a simple organosulfur compound, consisting of a methyl group (CH₃) attached to a sulfhydryl group (SH). Methyl mercaptan is naturally produced by certain bacteria and is found in small amounts in some foods, such as onions and garlic. This compound is primarily used in the production of methionine, an essential amino acid in animal feed. Methyl mercaptan is also utilized in the synthesis of various chemicals and as a warning agent in natural gas, as its strong odor helps detect gas leaks.