Ingredient · E636

Maltol

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Maltol is used as a flavor enhancer and sweetener in a wide variety of …

What it is

Maltol is a natural compound found in chicory, roasted malt, and pine needles. It is often produced synthetically for use as a food additive. It has a sweet, caramel-like aroma and flavor.

Why it's used

Maltol is used as a flavor enhancer and sweetener in a wide variety of foods. It can make sweet flavors more intense and mask bitter or metallic tastes. It is commonly found in baked goods, desserts, beverages, and confectionery.

Health notes

Maltol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated maltol. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns.

Allergen info

Maltol is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Maltol

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KIMBERLEY'S BAKESHOPPE S'Mores Cupcakes Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 434kcal 3.8Protein 24.5Fat 54.7Carbs KIMBERLEY'S BAKESHOPPE Kimberley's Bakeshoppe, Cupcakes, Hot Chocolate Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 434kcal 3.8Protein 22.6Fat 52.8Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Pickle Slices, Bread & Butter Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 89kcal 0Protein 0Fat 21.4Carbs The French Patisserie, Inc. Looka Patisserie, Macaroons, Vanilla & Raspberry, Vanilla & Raspberry Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 9.1Protein 22.7Fat 54.5Carbs The French Patisserie, Inc. Looka Patisserie, Macarons, Raspberry, Pistachio, Raspberry, Pistachio Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 9.1Protein 22.7Fat 54.5Carbs The French Patisserie, Inc. Looka Patisserie, Macaroons, Vanilla, Raspberry, Pistachios, Vanilla, Raspberry, Pistachios Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 9.1Protein 22.7Fat 54.5Carbs The Kroger Co. Instant Pudding & Pie Filling, Butterscotch Puddings & Custards 357kcal 0Protein 0Fat 71.4Carbs ST Partners, LLC Gourmet Deviled Eggs, Sweet Relish Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in cholesterol — 35% DV per serving 247kcal 10.6Protein 21.2Fat 3.5Carbs Bi-Lo Inc. Cucumber Sandwich Slices Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 89kcal 0Protein 0Fat 21.4Carbs Ahold USA, Inc. Sweet Relish Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 167kcal 0Protein 0Fat 40Carbs Smoked Fish Dip, Smoked Fish Acme Smoked Fish Corporation Smoked Fish Dip, Smoked Fish Dips & Salsa —kcal 12.5Protein 35.7Fat 1.8Carbs The Kroger Co. King Soopers, Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 314kcal 7.8Protein 8.8Fat 52.9Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.