Maltol

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.