3-Hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one

📌Basic Information

✨Properties and Characteristics
Methyl maltol is a white to pale yellow needle-like crystal or crystalline powder. It has a distinctive aroma reminiscent of caramelized butter, and its dilute solutions have a strawberry-like scent. The substance is highly volatile and sublimates at 93°C. Regarding solubility, it is readily soluble in hot water, ethanol, propylene glycol, and chloroform; slightly soluble in benzene; and insoluble in petroleum ether. Its melting point is 160–164°C (lit.). For storage, it should be protected from light, kept in a sealed container, and stored in a cool, dry place, avoiding contact with iron.

🎯Uses
Methyl maltol is a versatile flavor enhancer that serves to intensify, stabilize, and sweeten aromas. It is used in the formulation of food, tobacco, and cosmetic fragrances. In the food industry, it is primarily used to create strawberry, coffee, malt, nut, vanilla, and various fruit-based flavors, and is added to bread and cakes to impart a freshly baked aroma. In consumer products, it is commonly used in the formulation of pine needle and rose-type flavorings, where it imparts a warm, sweet effect. Furthermore, it is widely used in the beverage, ice cream, meat products, tobacco, brewing, and pharmaceutical industries. The typical recommended usage levels are: 4.1 mg/kg for soft drinks, 30 mg/kg for baked goods, and 90 mg/kg for chewing gum. When used as a flavor enhancer, concentrations of 50–250 mg/kg are typically employed.

📧 Contact Info

lucy@coreychem.com