Ethyl maltol
A safe and ubiquitous synthetic sweet flavor.
- Category
- Flavour enhancers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A synthetic analogue of maltol that is significantly sweeter and more potent.
How it is used in food
An intensely sweet-smelling flavor enhancer roughly four to six times more potent than maltol, giving candy-floss and caramel notes at tiny doses and helping mask bitterness.
Commonly found in- Confectionery
- Vape juice
- Desserts
Health and safety
Considered safe for consumption; it is one of the most common sweet flavorings used globally.
JECFA evaluated ethyl maltol and set an ADI of 0–2 mg/kg body weight. Long use history and toxicological studies show no adverse effects at the trace levels used in food.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E637
Worth knowing
Unlike maltol, ethyl maltol does not occur in nature — it is a purely synthetic molecule, yet its cotton-candy aroma has made it one of the world's most widely used sweet flavorings.
Conclusion
A safe and ubiquitous synthetic sweet flavor.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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