Maltol (E636): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Maltol is a naturally occurring pyranone found in roasted malt, baked bread and heated milk, used as a flavour enhancer that adds a warm, sweet, caramel-like note. JECFA set an acceptable daily intake of 0-1 mg per kg body weight, and it is regulated in the EU and UK as an authorised flavouring substance. No genotoxic or carcinogenic concern has been identified at the levels used in food.
- Category
- Flavour Enhancer — Flavour enhancer
- Typically used in
- Baked goods, confectionery, chocolate and beverages.
- Regulatory status
- Authorised in the EU and UK as a flavouring substance under Regulation 1334/2008 rather than as an additive. JECFA ADI 0-1 mg/kg bw. The E636 designation is a legacy Codex number.
Scrannr flags Maltol automatically when you scan a barcode.
Where this comes from
- JECFA WHO IPCS INCHEM (2005) — Maltol JECFA evaluation summary https://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jeceval/jec_1318.htm
Products containing Maltol
We're building product pages that show real UK products containing Maltol, using Open Food Facts data. They'll appear here soon — in the meantime, scan any barcode with the Scrannr app to check for it instantly.
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