Menthol

Menthol is a compound that gives peppermint and other mint plants their characteristic flavor and cooling sensation. It can be naturally derived from mint oils or synthesized in a lab from petroleum-based chemicals. The synthetic version is commonly used in food products.

Menthol is primarily used as a flavoring agent to impart a minty taste and a cooling sensation. It is frequently added to chewing gum, candies, and lozenges. It can also be found in some oral hygiene products and throat lozenges for its perceived soothing effect.

In the United States, menthol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated menthol, and it is permitted for use in foods in many regions. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some research has explored its potential effects, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive regarding significant health impacts from dietary use.