Ethyl maltol

Ethyl maltol is a flavorant that is commonly used in the food industry to impart a sweet, caramel-like flavor to various food products. It is a derivative of maltol, a naturally occurring compound that contributes to the pleasant aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted coffee.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Ethyl maltol has the chemical formula C7H8O3 and is a white crystalline powder at room temperature. It is soluble in water, alcohol, and most organic solvents. Its melting point is approximately 90°C, and it has a sweet, caramel-like odor.

Production

Ethyl maltol is produced synthetically from maltol through a process known as esterification. In this process, maltol is reacted with ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst to produce ethyl maltol and water.

Uses

Ethyl maltol is widely used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer. It imparts a sweet, caramel-like flavor to a variety of food products, including baked goods, candies, ice creams, and beverages. It is also used in the tobacco industry to enhance the flavor of tobacco products, and in the perfume industry to add a sweet note to fragrances.

Safety

Ethyl maltol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, like all food additives, it should be used in moderation. Excessive consumption of ethyl maltol can lead to potential health risks, such as liver damage and neurotoxicity.

See Also

• Maltol
• Food additives
• Flavorant
• Esterification