2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline

2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) is an aroma compound and flavor that is found in a variety of foods and plants. It is particularly noted for its presence in cooked rice, bread crust, and pandan leaves. It is also a significant component of the aroma of white bread, jasmine rice, and basmati rice, as well as the spice cumin and the tropical plant pandan.

Chemical Structure and Properties

2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline has the molecular formula C₆H₉NO. It is a volatile compound, meaning it readily evaporates at room temperature, which allows its aroma to be easily detected. It is a liquid at room temperature and has a strong, sweet, nutty aroma.

Occurrence and Production

• 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline is found in a variety of foods and plants. It is a key aroma component of cooked rice, bread crust, and pandan leaves. It is also found in the aroma of white bread, jasmine rice, basmati rice, and the spice cumin.

• In plants, 2AP is produced via the Maillard reaction, a type of non-enzymatic browning reaction that occurs when amino acids and sugars are heated together. In rice, 2AP is formed when the amino acid proline is heated with the sugar glucose.

Role in Food and Cooking

• 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline is a significant contributor to the flavor and aroma of many foods. Its strong, sweet, nutty aroma is a key characteristic of the smell of cooked rice, bread crust, and pandan leaves. It is also a significant component of the aroma of white bread, jasmine rice, basmati rice, and the spice cumin.

• In cooking, the presence of 2AP can enhance the flavor and aroma of foods. For example, in rice dishes, the presence of 2AP can enhance the aroma and flavor of the rice, making it more appealing to eat.

Health Effects

There is currently limited research on the health effects of 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline. However, as a naturally occurring compound in many foods, it is generally considered safe for consumption.

See Also

• Aroma compound
• Flavor
• Maillard reaction