2,4,5-Trimethyl-3-oxazoline

2,4,5-Trimethyl-3-oxazoline (CAS 22694-96-8, EC 607-131-8, FEMA 3525) is a nitrogen-oxygen heterocyclic compound belonging to the oxazoline family. It is also referenced under the names 2,4,5-trimethyloxazoline and Trimethyloxazolinecistrans, and carries no assigned E-code under European food additive legislation.

In food and beverage formulation, it functions as a flavoring agent to impart roasted, nutty, and musty character profiles in products such as coffee, cocoa, and savory preparations. Its activity derives from the oxazoline ring system, which contributes thermally stable heterocyclic aroma notes at low use concentrations, allowing precise flavor modulation without overloading the base matrix.

This material is supplied as a flavoring-grade liquid and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Procurement teams should confirm FEMA GRAS status applicability for their target market and request supplier documentation covering purity specifications and safety data sheets prior to formulation trials.