Maltol

Flavor Enhancer

Maltol at a glance

Category
Flavor Enhancer
Also called
3-Hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone
Commonly found in
baked goods, beverages, confectionery, ice cream
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Maltol?

Maltol is a naturally occurring organic compound that is known for its sweet aroma reminiscent of caramelized sugars or freshly baked bread. It is commonly used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer, particularly in baked goods, beverages, and confectionery. Maltol is also found naturally in some foods such as roasting malt, pine needles, and the bark of some trees.

Also known as:

3-Hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Maltol ingredient is a processed starch derivative commonly used as a thickener or bulking agent in food products. This ingredient may include corn. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

Learn more →
VeganCaution

Maltol (also called e636) is a food additive usually made from tree bark or malt. In some cases, it may be produced from milk (lactose).

Learn more →
Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Learn more →
Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Learn more →
Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Learn more →
Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Learn more →
Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

Learn more →
GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Learn more →
Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Learn more →
Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Learn more →
Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Learn more →
Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Learn more →
Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Learn more →
Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Learn more →
Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Learn more →
Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Learn more →
Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

Learn more →
PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

Learn more →
Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Learn more →
Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Learn more →
Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Learn more →
Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

Learn more →
VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

Learn more →
Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Learn more →

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Maltol

Some people may avoid maltol due to its potential derivation from corn-based sources. Since maltol can be synthesized from starch, and corn is a common source of starch in food manufacturing, individuals with corn allergies or sensitivities may need to verify the source with manufacturers to ensure it is safe for their dietary needs.

Potential Reactions

  • allergic reaction

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Maltol

Browse products that match your diet.

Explore Products

Related to Maltol

Other ingredients people often check alongside Maltol.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping

Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play