This section focuses on an overview of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine (filbert pyrazine) as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine manufacturers, supply chain issues, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine suppliers, and 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine prices. Sinofi can help you buy 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine in bulk for industry applications at wholesale prices based on FEMA 3155 and CAS 15707-23-0.
Table of Contents
What is 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine (Filbert Pyrazine)?
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, also named filbert pyrazine, represents one of the most significant alkylpyrazines utilized in the flavour and fragrance industry. This heterocyclic aromatic compound plays a crucial role in creating complex flavour profiles that mimic naturally occurring aromas found in roasted, nutty, and earthy food products. 2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine features a six-membered pyrazine ring with two nitrogen atoms positioned at the 1,4-positions, substituted with an ethyl group at position 2 and a methyl group at position 3. This specific substitution pattern contributes to its distinctive aromatic characteristics. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine is approved to be used in the food, flavour, and fragrance industries.
Regulatory Considerations and Safety
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine has been evaluated by various regulatory bodies like EUR-Lex, ECHACHEM, EFSA, WHO, RIFM, and JECFA. In the United States, it appears on the FEMA GRAS list, confirming its acceptability for use in food products. The European Union similarly permits its use as a flavouring substance, with specific maximum levels established for different food categories. Flavour formulation engineers must remain cognizant of regional regulatory variations and ensure compliance with local requirements. Documentation of usage levels and finished product testing should be maintained to demonstrate regulatory compliance and support quality assurance protocols. The fragrance standard of filbert pyrazine has been set by organizations such as IFRA.
Natural Occurrence
In nature, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine forms through various biochemical and thermal processes. The compound naturally occurs in roasted coffee beans, cocoa, roasted barley, and various cooked meats. Specifically, the interaction between amino acids containing alpha-dicarbonyl compounds and ammonia or amino groups leads to pyrazine formation through condensation reactions.
The Strecker degradation of amino acids represents another significant formation pathway, particularly in fermented products. During this process, amino acids undergo oxidative deamination and decarboxylation, producing intermediates that subsequently condense to form pyrazines. Understanding these natural formation mechanisms helps flavour formulation engineers replicate authentic flavour profiles in processed foods while optimizing production conditions to enhance desirable pyrazine development.
Sensory Profile and Characteristics
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine possesses a complex sensory profile that makes it invaluable in flavour formulation. This compound, valued for its distinctive nutty and roasted aroma characteristics, serves as a critical ingredient in food flavouring applications, particularly in creating coffee, chocolate, and roasted nut profiles. At appropriate dilutions, it delivers notes reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts, toasted grains, and baked bread crust. The aroma threshold for this compound is remarkably low, typically ranging from 0.04 to 0.16 parts per billion in water, demonstrating its potency as a flavouring agent.
The sensory impact varies significantly with concentration. At lower levels, it contributes subtle background notes that enhance overall flavour complexity without dominating the profile. As concentrations increase, the roasted and nutty characteristics become more pronounced, eventually reaching levels where earthy and raw potato-like notes may emerge. This concentration-dependent behavior requires careful consideration during formulation to achieve the desired sensory outcome.
CAS No.: 15707-23-0
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine is 15707-23-0.
CAS Name: 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine
Molecular Formula: C7H10N2
Molecular Mass: 122.17
Appearance: Colorless to light yellow, clear liquid
JECFA Number: 768
Boiling Point: 169.00 to 171.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg
Solubility: Soluble in alcohol, organic solvents. Insoluble in water.
Other Names:
♦ Filbert Pyrazine
♦ Pyrazine, 2-ethyl-3-methyl-
♦ 2-Methyl-3-ethylpyrazine
♦ 2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Odor
At 0.10 % in dipropylene glycol, nutty, peanut, musty corn, and strong raw potato odour.
FEMA Number 3155
According to the Flavour and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA), the 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine FEMA number is 3155.
Bulk 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Manufacturers
The bulk manufacturing of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine is concentrated among several key companies globally, with significant production capacity distributed across Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe. Top 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine manufacturers like Givaudan and Sigma-Aldrich focus on high-purity grades of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, catering to pharmaceutical and premium food applications where stringent quality standards are paramount. China has emerged as a dominant force in the production of this compound, with several manufacturers operating large-scale facilities capable of producing multi-ton quantities annually. They benefit from integrated supply chains, access to raw materials, and competitive production costs that have positioned them as major suppliers to international markets.
Sinofi is a bulk 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of filbert pyrazine. We supply high-quality 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine at bulk prices and serve food, flavour, and fragrance manufacturers worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine
The industrial manufacture of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine represents a well-established process with multiple synthetic pathways available.
Primary Synthetic Route: Condensation of α-Dicarbonyl Compounds
The most economically viable industrial method involves the condensation of 2,3-butanedione (diacetyl) with ethylamine and methylamine in the presence of ammonia.
Reaction Mechanism:
CH₃-CO-CO-CH₃ + NH₃ + C₂H₅NH₂ + CH₃NH₂ → 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine + 3H₂O
Alternative Route: Strecker Degradation Method
This method utilizes the reaction between 2-oxopropanal, ethylamine, and acetoin under controlled thermal conditions.
Advantages:
• Higher selectivity for the desired isomer
• Reduced formation of by-products
• Better control over substitution pattern
Bulk 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Suppliers
The bulk supply for 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine comprises several distinct categories of companies, each serving different market segments and quality requirements. Top 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine suppliers like Givaudan and Sigma-Aldrich have significant market presence through their specialty chemicals divisions. Sigma-Aldrich also maintains consistent supply availability for research and industrial applications. Chinese filbert pyrazine suppliers constitute a significant portion of global production capacity. They offer competitive pricing and bulk quantities for industrial applications, providing flexible packaging options.
Sinofi is a bulk 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality filbert pyrazine. We sell different grades of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine at wholesale prices to food, flavour, and fragrance manufacturers.
Supply Chain of 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine
The 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine supply chain represents a microcosm of the broader specialty chemicals industry, characterized by complex international trade relationships, stringent regulatory requirements, and evolving market demands.
Supply Chain Structure
Raw Material Sourcing
The supply chain for 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine begins with the sourcing of basic petrochemical feedstocks and specialty intermediates.
Key raw material categories include:
- Petrochemical Derivatives: Primary feedstocks for pyrazine synthesis.
- Nitrogen-containing Compounds: Essential for heterocyclic compound formation.
- Specialty Intermediates: Processed chemical building blocks.
Manufacturing and Production
Key suppliers in the global market include Givaudan, Sigma-Aldrich, and some Chinese companies.
Distribution
Chemical suppliers can be segregated into primary groups: raw material suppliers and 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine suppliers。
End-Use Applications
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine functions as a flavour and fragrance agent with a nutty type odor and flavour, combining outstanding strength, a profile pleasantly free from off-notes, and a little more heat stability than the more commonly used series of dimethyl pyrazines.
Wholesale and Buy 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine in Bulk
Successful procurement of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine in wholesale quantities requires a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, supplier capabilities, and quality requirements. Filbert pyrazine buyers must balance cost optimization objectives with the need for consistent quality and reliable supply chain performance.
Supplier Evaluation and Selection Framework
Effective supplier selection for 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine procurement requires a comprehensive evaluation framework that extends beyond traditional cost considerations. Technical capabilities represent a fundamental criterion, as suppliers must demonstrate consistent production of compounds meeting stringent purity specifications and sensory profile requirements. This involves reviewing analytical capabilities, quality management systems, and track records for maintaining batch-to-batch consistency.
Regulatory compliance capabilities constitute another critical evaluation factor. Suppliers must maintain appropriate certifications for food-grade applications where applicable, demonstrate adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices, and provide comprehensive documentation supporting product safety and quality claims. This becomes particularly important for organizations serving regulated industries where ingredient traceability and safety documentation are mandatory requirements.
As a bulk 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality filbert pyrazine for food, flavour, and fragrance industries. We also wholesale filbert pyrazine to small customers. Normally, they want to buy filbert pyrazine in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Prices (GC Content >=99.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 22 USD | Express |
| 500g | 112 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 160 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | >20% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
The 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine pricing reflects broader market dynamics influenced by raw material costs, production capacity, regulatory frameworks, and evolving consumer preferences toward natural flavour enhancers. Pricing variations reflect product specifications, with higher purity grades commanding premium rates. Filbert pyrazine pricing outlook remains positive, supported by growing demand for natural flavouring solutions and limited supply alternatives. Regional market development, particularly in Asia-Pacific territories, provides volume growth opportunities while established markets offer stability and premium positioning possibilities.
Furthermore, the above price quotations of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of filbert pyrazine may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Specification
| Appearance: | Colorless to light yellow, clear liquid |
| Odor: | Nutty, peanut, musty corn, strong raw potato odour. |
| Purity (GC) | >=99% |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | 1.5020 – 1.5050 |
| Moisture Content (%) | <=0.5 |
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Uses
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine demonstrates exceptional versatility across multiple industrial applications, from food flavour enhancement to sophisticated fragrance development.
Primary Applications in Food and Flavour Industry
Flavour Enhancement and Food Manufacturing
2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine serves as a critical flavour agent in food manufacturing, contributing distinctive nutty and roasted characteristics to various products. The compound exhibits remarkable potency, with detection thresholds as low as 2 ppm in general applications and 130 ppb in aqueous solutions. At concentrations of 10 ppm, it delivers pronounced nutty, peanut, and musty corn-like flavours with notable raw and oily nuances.
Within bakery and confectionery applications, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine serves to intensify chocolate and coffee flavours while adding complexity to nut-based flavour systems. The compound’s ability to harmonize with sweet flavour components makes it particularly effective in developing sophisticated dessert flavours that require balanced nutty undertones without overwhelming sweetness.
Beverage applications represent another significant area where this compound demonstrates exceptional utility. In coffee flavouring, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine enhances the roasted character while contributing to the overall brew complexity. Similarly, in alcoholic beverage flavouring, particularly whiskey and bourbon profiles, the compound contributes to the aged, woody characteristics that consumers associate with premium spirits.
Fragrance and Perfumery Applications
Aroma Development and Scent Profiles
In perfumery applications, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine contributes to complex fragrance compositions through its characteristic nutty and roasted notes. The compound proves particularly valuable for creating sophisticated scent profiles that evoke warmth and comfort associated with cooked and grilled food aromas. Perfumers utilize this ingredient to add depth and complexity to fragrance formulations, especially those seeking to incorporate gourmand or comfort-food elements.
The compound’s ability to replicate natural roasted aromas makes it suitable for fragrance applications requiring authentic sensory experiences. Its molecular structure enables effective blending with other aromatic compounds, facilitating the creation of multi-dimensional scent profiles.
Industrial and Specialized Applications
Research and Development
Scientific research applications for 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine include analytical studies in flavour and fragrance chemistry. Researchers examine its contribution to complex aroma profiles and investigate its interactions with other volatile and non-volatile compounds. These studies advance understanding of olfactory mechanisms and sensory perception, supporting product development across multiple industries.
The compound serves as a reference standard in analytical chemistry applications, particularly in gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analyses of food and fragrance products. Its well-characterized properties make it valuable for calibration and identification purposes in laboratory settings.
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Benefits
Flavour-Enhancing Benefits
The food industry has embraced 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine for its exceptional flavour-enhancing properties. The compound serves as a flavour and fragrance agent with a nutty type odor and a nutty type flavour. The compound exhibits green, must, nut, potato, and roasted flavour characteristics, making it valuable for creating complex flavour profiles in processed foods.
Unique Olfactory Benefits
In the fragrance industry, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine offers unique olfactory benefits. The compound is useful for the reconstitution of coffee, chocolate, hazelnut, and other cooked and grilled food notes. Perfumers value its ability to add depth and complexity to fragrance compositions, particularly those aiming to evoke food-related or gourmand scents.
2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine Used in Flavour and Fragrance
The versatility of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine extends across multiple flavour categories, making it an indispensable component in the flavour engineer’s toolkit. In savory applications, the compound enhances meat flavours, particularly beef and poultry profiles, where it contributes to the perception of grilled or roasted characteristics. The compound proves equally valuable in developing vegetarian and plant-based protein flavours, where it helps bridge the sensory gap between plant proteins and traditional meat products.
Technical Formulation Considerations
Successful incorporation of 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine into flavour systems requires careful attention to several technical parameters. The compound’s volatility characteristics necessitate consideration of the final application method and processing conditions. In heat-processed applications, formulators must account for potential volatility losses and adjust inclusion levels accordingly.
Solubility considerations play a crucial role in formulation success. While the compound demonstrates good solubility in ethanol and propylene glycol, aqueous systems may require specialized solubilization techniques or carrier systems to ensure uniform distribution and stability. The selection of appropriate carrier solvents becomes particularly important when developing clear beverage applications or water-based flavour systems.
Interaction with other flavour components requires systematic evaluation during formulation development. 2-Ethyl-3-methylpyrazine exhibits synergistic effects with other pyrazine compounds, allowing for the creation of more complex nutty profiles through strategic blending. Additionally, the compound demonstrates compatibility with sulfur-containing compounds commonly found in meat flavour systems, enabling the development of sophisticated savory profiles.
An Iced Coffee Flavour for E-Liquid Using 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine
This iced coffee flavor is prepared by mixing coffee flavour 32 parts, mint flavour 17 parts, and 95% alcohol 51 parts.
Coffee flavour includes the following ingredients (by weight):
Ethyl maltol, 3 parts; vanillin, 3 parts; phenylethyl alcohol, 1.5 parts; thiothiazole, 0.15 parts; furfural, 8 parts; furfuryl alcohol, 7.5 parts; 2-acetylpyrazine, 0.4 parts; 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 0.35 parts; 2-ethyl-3,5(6)-dimethylpyrazine, 0.2 parts; 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, 3.75 parts; guaiacol, 9 parts; 2, 3, 5-trimethylpyrazine, 4 parts; isovaleraldehyde, 0.4 parts; acetic acid, 0.2 parts; furfuryl acetate, 0.3 parts; 2-acetylfuran, 0.5 parts; 2, 6-dimethylfuran, 3.5 parts; propylene glycol, 54.25 parts.
Mint flavour includes the following ingredients (by weight):
Menthol, 66 parts; cooling agent, 10 parts; peppermint oil, 7 parts; L-menthone, 1 part; absolute alcohol, 10 parts; 95% alcohol, 6 parts. Based on sensory evaluation, the cooling agent is a 1:1 blend of WS-23 and WS-5 to achieve a cooling effect distributed throughout the mouth.
Mint flavouring, with menthol as its primary ingredient, emphasizes the refreshing and cooling properties of mint. In addition to menthol and menthone, peppermint oil also contains medicinal ingredients such as limonene, amyl alcohol, and eucalyptol, supplementing the sweetness and freshness lacking in menthol. Lipophilicity and hydrogen bonding are essential elements for producing a cooling effect. Cooling agent molecules typically possess hydrogen-bonding groups, a compact carbon chain backbone, and an appropriate hydrophilic-lipophilic balance. The WS series of cooling agents exhibits extremely high cooling activity without side effects such as burning, numbness, or irritation, and is used to enrich the distribution of cooling sensations throughout the mouth. WS‑5 provides a fast initial cooling effect and long-lasting cooling, with the cooling feeling mainly concentrated in the top of the mouth and the back of the tongue; WS‑23 has a weaker cooling effect than WS‑5, but the overall cooling feeling is rounder, with the cooling feeling concentrated in the nasal cavity and the front of the mouth.
In conclusion, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine represents a valuable compound for the food and fragrance industries, offering distinctive sensory benefits supported by a strong safety profile and regulatory acceptance. Its natural occurrence in foods, combined with established synthetic production methods, positions it as a reliable and effective ingredient for manufacturers seeking to enhance their products’ appeal. As a bulk 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of filbert pyrazine at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.