Maltol

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Maltol
Maltol
Chemical name 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one
Chemical formula C6H6O3
Molecular mass 126.11 g/mol
CAS number [118-71-8]
Density 1.348 g/cm3
Melting point 161-162 °C
Boiling point  ? °C
SMILES O=C1C=COC(C)=C1O
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Maltol is natural organic compound used primarily as a flavor enhancer. It is found in the bark of larch tree, in pine needles, and in roasted malt (from which it gets its name).

Maltol is a white crystalline powder that is soluble in hot water, chloroform, and other polar solvents.

Because it has the odor of caramel, maltol is used to impart a sweet aroma to fragrances. Maltol has a taste reminiscent of freshly baked bread, and is used as a flavor enhancer (E number E636) in breads and cakes.

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