Ethyl Maltol is an organic compound widely used in food production and perfumery. It is used as a flavoring agent for beverages, wine, food, and tobacco. It is also used in the manufacture of cosmetic products and essence. Some herbal infusions also contain Ethyl Maltol.
What is Ethyl Maltol?
Ethyl Maltol is an analog of Maltol which is considered an ideal food additive. The compound may be obtained by including an ethyl group in maltol instead of a methyl group. Contrary to popular belief, Ethyl Maltol is not an artificial sweetener. It generally works by sweetening the aroma of food, thereby improving flavor through nasal sensory. Hence, unlike sugar substitutes, the compound does not dump sugar into the body.
While it is a synthetic product, the compound is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration. Thus, it may be used safely and effectively in baking, food and beverage production, as well as in perfumery.
The product Ethyl Maltol is usually described as having a whitish crystalline powder appearance. It has a sweet, strawberry-like odor, making it ideal for the production of candies. Ethyl Maltol powder is generally soluble in organic solvents like ethanol but only sparingly soluble in water.
Other names for Ethyl Maltol include 2-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4H-pyran-4-one, 2-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-pyranone, 2-Ethyl pyromeconic acid, and 2-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-4-pyrone. It is identified as having CAS number 4940-11-8. Its molecular formula is C7H8O3 and its molecular weight is 140.14 g/mol.
Ethyl Maltol forms and specifications
As a flavoring agent, the compound can be used in the form of Ethyl Maltol 99% powder or Ethyl Maltol 10% PG solution. When purchased in bulk in its powder form, the compound can be packed in paper drums with two layers of poly bags inside. Each drum has a net weight of about 25 kilograms. You may also purchase lesser quantities of the product and request other packaging options.
Ethyl Maltol vs Maltol
Both Maltol and Ethyl Maltol are used in the field of food and beverage products as flavoring agents. They possess almost similar molecular structures, except that Ethyl Maltol has an ethyl group while Maltol has an attached methyl group.
Maltol or Methyl Maltol is a naturally occurring form of a flavoring agent obtained from the bark of a larch tree. In contrast, Ethyl Maltol is a synthetic form of a flavoring agent derived from chemical synthesis. In terms of effects, Ethyl Maltol is more effective in providing sweetness aroma as it is four to six times stronger than Maltol.
Ethyl Maltol vs Sucralose
Sucralose is a popular artificial sweetener having several applications in food production. Sucralose or Splenda is a well-known zero-calorie flavoring agent.
While both Sucralose and Ethyl Maltol are known to improve sweetness, they work in varying mechanisms. Sucralose is generally a sugar substitute, in short, it is sweet because it is sugar in itself. In contrast, Ethyl Maltol only improves sweetness aroma, thereby producing a seemingly sweet flavor.
Recent researches show that, unlike Ethyl Maltol, Sucralose is not ideal for baking. This is because heating Sucralose may result in the production of certain compounds which may pose risks for cancer. It is also suggested that the use of Sucralose may have unlikely effects on normal gut flora.
TFA sweetener vs Ethyl Maltol
TFA sweeteners refer to the concentrated sweetness flavoring agents from “The Flavor Apprentice” (TFA). It contains 5% Maltol or Ethyl Maltol and 5% Sucralose. Both TFA sweetener and Ethyl Maltol are popular as flavoring agents for vaping. According to reviews, Ethyl Maltol only provides a feeling of sweetness, while TFA sweeteners give out the sweetness in themselves. Hence, while some individuals prefer TFA sweeteners, most persons using artificial sweeteners in vaping prefer Ethyl Maltol.
Ethyl Maltol Applications
Ethyl Maltol is a safe and effective flavoring agent as it is good for the heart. Some researches also show that it may possess antioxidant properties. The following are among the applications of the compound:
It may be used in perfumery
The compound is very popular in the production of perfumes as it produces a sweet smell similar to cotton candy or strawberry jam. In its concentrated forms, Ethyl Maltol has a caramel-like scent. Not only does the compound provide a unique aroma in perfumes but it is also known to provide fragrances for cosmetic products. It may also be used to improve the fragrances of cakes and other baking products.
It improves flavor in vaping
Users of vaping products also use Ethyl Maltol as a flavoring agent. It is mostly used with non-citrus flavors as it effectively enhances aroma.
It is widely used as a flavoring agent
Ethyl Maltol is used in baking, the production of beverages, fruit juices, ice creams, and pickled vegetables. It is also used in the production of some poultry products. With its caramel aroma, the compound is also used in the production of chocolates and meat products like ham and sausage.
The compound is used in yogurt production as it effectively reduces sourness. In meat products, the compound is also known to delay fat oxidation and improve meat aroma.
It works as a sweetener
While it provides sweetness, Ethyl Maltol is not an artificial sweetener. Thus, it can be used safely to improve the sweetness of food and beverages.
Ethyl Maltol side effects
The use of Ethyl Maltol is not usually associated with side effects. However, when used in high doses or taken in excessive quantities, experts say that the compound may cause adverse effects which may range from mild to severe forms. Common side effects of increased Ethyl Maltol use include nausea, vomiting, and stomach irritation.
Ethyl Maltol Acceptable Daily Intake
In most researches, the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Ethyl Maltol is at a maximum of 2 mg/kg body weight. However, for individuals who are suffering from certain medical conditions, the ADI for Ethyl Maltol may vary depending on a physician’s assessment. Factors like age, weight, and overall physical condition may also be considered in determining an individual’s ADI for Ethyl Maltol.
Where to buy bulk Ethyl Maltol?
While many suppliers online sell Ethyl Maltol, it is always best to purchase from legitimate and FDA-registered ingredient suppliers like Nutriavenue. Our company offers high-quality ingredients at very affordable prices. We are also recognized by Halal, Kosher, and GMP.
Aside from Ethyl Maltol, we also offer various ingredients which you may check out when you visit our website. You may choose to purchase in bulk or lesser quantities. You may also avail of a free quote when you visit our page.
For your convenience, we also offer shipping services through air, sea, or couriers like FedEx and UPS. Rates for shipping vary depending on your location and the number of products you are to purchase.
For more information on our products and services, you may visit our page and inquire about our friendly and customer-oriented technical support staff.
