Food or beverages prepared using 1,3-propanediol have shown to have modified flavor profiles, including modified flavor release, relative to an otherwise identical food product or beverage that does not include 1,3-propanediol. Inclusion of 1,3-propanediol uniquely modifies the flavor profile of these products or food ingredients in these products even when 1,3-propanediol is included in such low amounts that it does not itself contribute flavor to the product. 1,3-propanediol may be included in the food or beverage products to effect this modified flavor release, such as about 0.1 to about 2 weight percent, or in specific ratios relative to one or more flavor compounds in the product.