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Charles Gounod was a French composer best known for his operas, but he also made significant contributions to sacred music. The "O Salutaris Hostia" you mentioned is actually a hymn that Gounod set to music as part of his larger work known as "Messe Solennelle en l'honneur de Sainte-Cécile" (Solemn Mass in Honor of Saint Cecilia).

Here are some interesting facts about Charles Gounod and the "O Salutaris":

1. Early Life and Education: Charles Gounod was born on June 17, 1818, in Paris, France. He came from a musical family, and he started studying music at an early age.

2. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire: Gounod entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of 17, where he studied under various renowned composers and teachers, including Fromental Halévy and Anton Reicha.

3. Operatic Success: Gounod gained fame for his operas, with perhaps the most famous being "Faust," based on Goethe's tragic play. "Faust" remains one of the most performed operas in the world.

4. Sacred Music Compositions: In addition to his operatic works, Gounod composed a significant amount of sacred music. The "Messe Solennelle en l'honneur de Sainte-Cécile" is one such example. The "O Salutaris" is a movement within this mass setting.

5. O Salutaris Hostia: The "O Salutaris Hostia" is a hymn often used during the exposition and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Gounod's setting of this hymn within the larger context of the solemn mass showcases his ability to blend operatic and sacred elements.

6. Influence of Gregorian Chant: Gounod was influenced by Gregorian chant in his sacred compositions, and this influence is evident in the melodic and harmonic choices he made in the "O Salutaris Hostia" and other sacred works.

7. Legacy: Charles Gounod's compositions, both operatic and sacred, continue to be celebrated. While he may not be as widely known as some other composers of his time, his contributions to French music and the blending of operatic and sacred elements in his works have left a lasting impact.