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Organic Acids

Maltol

CAS: 118-71-8

Overview

Maltol (CAS 118-71-8 ), also sold under the trade names Palatone and Vetol and approved as E636 , is a naturally derived flavor compound used to enhance and round out sweet, caramel, and baked-good profiles.

At low concentrations it intensifies perceived sweetness, allowing formulators to reduce sugar or artificial sweetener usage without sacrificing taste. In confectionery, bakery, and dairy products, it reinforces cooked-sugar and vanilla notes.

This compound improves flavor depth in finished goods across various food sectors. Beverage manufacturers use it to smooth harsh or artificial aftertastes in low-calorie and functional drink formulations for a better consumer experience.

In personal care, it functions as a fragrance modifier and antioxidant stabilizer, extending the scent profile of perfumes, lotions, and creams. It also acts as a chelating agent in cosmetic formulations to protect product stability.

By binding free metal ions, it helps maintain the shelf life of complex chemical mixtures. Maltol is supplied as a white crystalline powder, ensuring easy integration into dry or liquid manufacturing processes during production.

Standard commercial grades include food-grade material meeting FCC specifications, with USP and BP grades available for applications requiring tighter purity controls and pharmaceutical compliance.

Packaging typically ranges from kilogram quantities up to bulk sacks suited for industrial-scale formulation. This versatility makes it a staple ingredient for both boutique fragrance houses and large-scale food manufacturers.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point161.5 °C
Boiling Point140-150 °C @ Press: 20 Torr
Density0.990 g/cm³
Flash Point198 °F
Appearancewhite crystalline powder
ColorClear colorless
Odorat 5.00 % in benzyl alcohol. sweet caramel cotton candy jam fruity baked bread
FormLiquid
Water Solubility1.2 g/100 mL (25 ºC)
Vapor Pressure0.15Pa at 24℃
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.541
pH5.3 (0.5g/l, H2O)
Log P2.3 at 25℃

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 GHS08 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H341 Suspected of causing genetic defects Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29329995
UN Number3334
Storage Class11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)3

Other Names

Vetol | Palatone | larixic acid | 4H-Pyran-4-one3-hydroxy-2-methyl- | 3-hydroxy-2-methylpyran-4-one | 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyranone | 2-Methyl pyromeconic acid | 3-Hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone | E636

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Chemical Properties

CAS Number
118-71-8
EC Number
204-271-8
Mol. Weight
126.11
HS Code
29329995

Industries

Documentation