6.0
ISS Score
B — Acceptable — low-moderate concern
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
flavor enhancer · fragrance ingredient · antioxidant · sweetener
Maltol
Also known as: 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-pyrone, 4-hydroxy-2-methyl-3-pyrone
Molecular Formula
C6H6O3
Molecular Weight
126.11 g/mol
Category
flavoring agent
Bottom Line: Maltol is generally considered safe for use in food and cosmetics, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in recommended concentrations
- not combined with known allergens
- used in well-formulated products
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using multiple products containing flavoring agents
✕ Avoid If:
- you have a known allergy to maltol
- you experience irritation after use
- you are using it in high concentrations
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C6H6O3 |
| Molecular Weight | 126.11 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 161.0°C |
| Boiling Point | 93.0°C |
| Solubility | Soluble (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 0.4 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Fragrances, lotions, shampoos. Use in moderation to avoid potential irritation.
Food
Candies, baked goods, beverages. Generally safe when used as a flavoring agent.
Pharmaceutical
Syrups, tablets. Used to improve taste; follow dosage guidelines.
Supplement
Nutritional bars, protein powders. Check for allergies; use as directed.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Maltol is generally well tolerated on the skin with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion of maltol is typically safe in food applications, but excessive amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Insufficient Data
Limited data exists on the inhalation safety of maltol, warranting caution.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Low
Maltol is generally non-irritating to the eyes, but contact should be avoided.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Children may have heightened sensitivity to additives.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Generally well tolerated in adults.
- elderly — Typically safe for elderly individuals.
- breastfeeding — Considered safe in moderate amounts.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Adults typically tolerate maltol well in both cosmetic and food products. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Pregnant individuals should limit exposure to high concentrations of maltol. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive to additives; use caution with products containing maltol. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Maltol is generally considered safe during breastfeeding in moderate amounts. |
| elderly | Low | Elderly individuals typically tolerate maltol well, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Maltol is widely used as a flavoring agent with a good safety profile, though individual sensitivities may occur.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human sensitization study | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Maltol is widely used as a flavoring agent with a good safety profile, though individual sensitivities may occur.
- Generally recognized as safe in food and cosmetics.
- May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory assessments support its safe use.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Maltol
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Maltol is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Maltol
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Maltol is safe for use in food at specified levels.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Maltol is permitted as a flavoring agent in food.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Maltol is permitted for use in food and cosmetics across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Maltol is generally recognized as safe for consumption in regulated amounts.
Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to maltol.
Maltol is commonly found in candies, baked goods, and cosmetic fragrances.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:32:08.529394Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.