This section focuses on an overview of cooling agent WS-23 (Symcool WS-23) as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to cooling agent WS-23 manufacturers, supply chain issues, cooling agent WS-23 suppliers, and WS-23 prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality WS-23 powder in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on FEMA 3804 and CAS 51115-67-4.
Table of Contents
What is Cooling Agent WS-23?
WS-23, or Symcool WS-23, is a synthetic cooling agent that has gained significant popularity in various consumer products. Unlike menthol, its natural counterpart, WS-23 provides a clean cooling sensation without the distinctive minty flavor or aroma that characterizes traditional cooling compounds. Chemically, 2-Isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide consists of a branched aliphatic chain with an amide functional group, which contributes to its cooling effect. Its molecular structure allows it to interact with temperature-sensitive receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, specifically the TRPM8 receptors. When these receptors are activated, they send signals to the brain that create the perception of coolness without any actual temperature change occurring. What distinguishes WS-23 from other cooling agents is its unique sensory profile. The cooling effect develops more gradually than menthol, has a longer duration, and lacks the bitter notes or strong aromatic qualities of traditional cooling compounds. This makes it particularly valuable in applications where a cooling sensation is desired without altering other flavour profiles. WS-23, WS-3, WS-5, and WS-12 are the main cooling agents in the formulas of e-liquid. The cooling sense of WS-23 is rapid and mainly concentrated in the nasal cavity and oral cavity. These properties make it invaluable in applications ranging from beverages and salad dressings to pharmaceutical coatings and cosmetic formulations. Cooling agent WS-23 has been evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as a flavouring substance. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), WS-23 is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It has also been evaluated by relevant regulatory authorities like JECFA, EUR-Lex, ECHACHEM, and WHO. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) provide a guideline to ensure the cooling agent WS-23 is safe for its intended uses in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

CAS No.: 51115-67-4
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of WS-23 is 51115-67-4.
CAS Name: N,2,3-Trimethyl-2-isopropylbutanamide
Molecular Formula: C10H21NO
Molecular Mass: 171.28
Appearance: White powder.
Solubility: Easily soluble in alcohol, oils, propylene glycol; Insoluble in water: 459.1 mg/L @ 25 °C (est).
Other Names:
♦ 2-Isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutanamide
♦ Symcool WS-23
♦ WS 23 (cooling agent)
♦ Cooling Sensate WS 23
♦ N,2,3-Trimethyl-2-isopropylbutanamide
FEMA Number 3804
According to the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA), WS-23’s number is FEMA 3804.
Bulk Cooling Agent WS-23 Manufacturers
The global production of cooling agent WS-23 is primarily concentrated in Asia, particularly China, with additional significant production in India, Europe, and the United States. Top WS-23 manufacturers like Symrise have developed substantial manufacturing capabilities for WS-23 and other cooling agents. They leverage economies of scale and advanced production technologies to offer competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards.
Sinofi is a bulk cooling agent WS-23 manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of Symcool WS-23 powder. We supply high-quality cooling agent WS-23 at bulk prices and serve the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Symcool WS-23
The production of cooling agent WS-23 typically involves multi-step organic synthesis processes conducted in specialized chemical manufacturing facilities. The synthesis generally begins with p-menthane derivatives and involves several reaction steps, including carboxylation and amidation.
Raw Materials and Chemical Foundations
The synthesis of WS-23 begins with several key chemical precursors:
• 2-Isopropyl-2,3-dimethyl-butyronitrile (DIPPN)
• Various solvents (typically dichloromethane or tetrahydrofuran)
• Catalysts and reagents for specific reaction steps
Manufacturing Process
Step 1: Preparation of DIPPN
The reaction proceeds under anhydrous conditions to prevent hydrolysis of DIPPN.
Step 2: Amidation Reaction
The core synthetic step involves the reaction between the DIPPN and methylamine. DIPPN is hydrolyzed into 2, 3-trimethyl-2-isopropylbutyric acid, then chlorinated, and finally reacted with methylamine to obtain the target product.
This reaction is typically conducted at controlled temperatures (0-5°C initially, then warming to room temperature) in an appropriate solvent. A base such as triethylamine or sodium hydroxide is added to neutralize the hydrogen chloride produced as a byproduct.
Step 3: Purification
After the reaction is complete, the crude product undergoes several purification steps:
- Extraction: The reaction mixture is treated with water and an organic solvent to separate the organic compounds from water-soluble impurities.
- Washing: The organic layer is washed with dilute acid and base solutions to remove unreacted starting materials and byproducts.
- Drying: The organic phase is dried using a drying agent such as anhydrous sodium sulfate or magnesium sulfate.
- Filtration: The drying agent is removed by filtration.
- Solvent removal: The solvent is evaporated under reduced pressure.
Step 4: Final Purification
The final purification typically involves one of the following techniques:
- Recrystallization: The crude product is dissolved in a hot solvent or solvent mixture and then allowed to crystallize as the solution cools.
- Column chromatography: For higher purity requirements, the product may be purified using silica gel column chromatography.
- Distillation: Under vacuum conditions, WS-23 can be purified by distillation, especially for industrial-scale production.
Quality Control
The manufactured WS-23 undergoes rigorous quality control testing:
- Purity analysis using techniques such as HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) or GC (Gas Chromatography).
- Identity confirmation via spectroscopic methods (NMR, IR, Mass Spectrometry).
- Physical property testing (melting point, appearance).
- Sensory evaluation to confirm cooling efficacy.
- Microbial testing to ensure product safety
The manufacturing of Symcool WS-23 represents an intersection of organic chemistry, chemical engineering, and quality control processes. As demand for this cooling agent continues to grow across multiple industries, manufacturers continue to refine production methods to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact while maintaining the high purity needed for this versatile compound.
Bulk Cooling Agent WS-23 Suppliers
The global supply of WS-23 powder is dominated by bulk suppliers like Symrise and some Chinese companies. They have established themselves as major suppliers in the global market. Chinese suppliers dominate the market with high product quality and competitive pricing. European and North American suppliers often provide additional quality assurances and regulatory support.
Sinofi is a bulk cooling agent WS-23 supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality WS-23 powder. We sell different grades of WS-23 at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Symcool WS-23
The WS-23 supply chain represents a complex global network connecting chemical manufacturers, distributors, and diverse industries.
Supply Chain Structure
Raw Material Suppliers
The production of Symcool WS-23 begins with the sourcing of key chemical precursors:
- 2-Isopropyl-2,3-dimethyl-butyronitrile
- Various catalysts and reagents
These raw materials are predominantly supplied by chemical manufacturing companies primarily based in China, with some secondary suppliers in India and Europe.
Primary Manufacturers
The synthesis of the cooling agent WS-23 occurs in specialized chemical manufacturing facilities. The production process involves several chemical reactions carried out under controlled conditions to ensure purity and consistency.
Distributors and Traders
The distribution network for WS-23 involves:
- Global chemical distributors: Companies like Brenntag and Univar Solutions.
- Specialized flavor and fragrance distributors: Organizations focusing on food and cosmetic ingredients.
- Regional trading companies: Facilitating market access across different geographies.
These entities manage logistics, warehousing, regulatory compliance, and customer relationships.
End-Product Manufacturers
Cooling agent WS-23 is incorporated into finished products by manufacturers across various industries:
- Food and beverage: Confectionery, chewing gum, beverages, dairy products.
- Cosmetics and personal care: Toothpaste, mouthwash, skin care products.
- Pharmaceuticals: Topical analgesics, cough remedies.
- Vaping and e-liquids: Flavour enhancers providing cooling sensations.
These manufacturers formulate WS-23 at different concentrations depending on the desired cooling effect and application.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure that your WS-23 supplier complies with relevant regulations in your operational regions. For food and beverage applications, proper food-grade certification is essential. For cosmetic or pharmaceutical uses, additional compliance documentation may be required.
Wholesale and Buy WS-23 in Bulk
Purchasing WS-23 in bulk offers substantial benefits for manufacturers who use this versatile cooling agent in their products. By carefully selecting Symcool WS-23 suppliers, verifying quality, and negotiating favourable terms, companies can secure reliable supplies at competitive prices. As with any raw material procurement strategy, balance immediate cost savings against long-term supplier relationships, quality consistency, and regulatory compliance to maximize the value of your wholesale purchasing program.
Benefits of Buying WS-23 in Bulk
Cost Efficiency
Purchasing WS-23 in wholesale quantities typically results in lower per-unit costs. Suppliers often provide tiered pricing structures that reward larger purchases with better rates. This pricing advantage can significantly impact profit margins for manufacturers who incorporate WS-23 into their products.
Supply Chain Security
Maintaining a consistent inventory of essential ingredients ensures production continuity. Bulk purchasing reduces the frequency of reordering and minimizes the risk of production delays due to ingredient shortages or supply chain disruptions.
Quality Consistency
Working with a single batch of WS-23 across multiple production runs ensures product consistency. This is particularly important for manufacturers who need reliable sensory properties in their final products.
Key Considerations When Purchasing WS-23 in Bulk
When purchasing chemical ingredients in bulk, quality assurance is paramount. Reputable suppliers should provide:
- Certificates of Analysis (CoA).
- Purity specifications (typically 98% or higher for WS-23).
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Manufacturing date and batch information.
As a bulk WS-23 manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality WS-23 cooling agent for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care industries. We also wholesale WS-23 powder to small customers. Normally, they want to buy WS-23 in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale cooling agent WS-23 at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
WS-23 Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Cooling Agent WS-23 Prices (purity >=99.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 11 USD | Express |
| 500g | 55 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 80 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 30% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
The cooling agent WS-23 prices have seen significant fluctuations in recent months, driven by several key market factors.
Several factors have contributed to the recent price movements:
- Raw material costs have risen due to increased petroleum derivatives pricing, directly impacting production costs.
- Chinese production facilities, which account for approximately 70% of global WS-23 manufacturing capacity, have faced regulatory scrutiny and periodic production restrictions related to environmental compliance measures.
- Logistics challenges persist in international shipping, adding pressure to the supply chain and inflating delivered costs.
The market demand for WS-23 continues to strengthen, particularly in these sectors:
- The vaping industry remains the largest consumer of WS-23, with manufacturers seeking alternatives to traditional menthol.
- Food and beverage applications are expanding, particularly in ready-to-drink beverages and confectionery products.
- Oral care products increasingly incorporate WS-23 for its clean cooling effect and compatibility with other ingredients.
For manufacturers dependent on WS-23, strategic purchasing agreements and diversification of suppliers remain prudent approaches to navigate the current market conditions.
Furthermore, the above WS-23 price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of WS-23 cooling agent may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale WS-23 prices will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Cooling Agent WS-23 Uses
WS-23 has gained significant popularity across multiple industries. Unlike menthol, it provides a clean cooling sensation without the characteristic mint flavour, making it exceptionally versatile.
Food and Beverage Uses
The food and beverage sector has embraced WS-23 for its ability to create cooling sensations without altering flavour profiles:
- Candies and confectionery where a cooling effect is desired without mint flavouring.
- Chewing gum for long-lasting cooling sensations.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages that benefit from a refreshing mouthfeel.
- Ice creams and frozen desserts where WS-23 enhances the perception of coldness.
- Functional foods and dietary supplements where cooling provides a distinctive sensory experience.
Vaping and E-liquid Uses
The vaping industry has widely adopted Symcool WS-23 for its distinctive properties:
- E-liquids: Create a cooling sensation during inhalation.
- Nicotine replacement products that benefit from sensory cooling.
- CBD and hemp products: Cooling adds a dimension to the experience.
Personal Care and Cosmetic Uses
In personal care products, WS-23 creates a refreshing cooling sensation that consumers find appealing. It’s commonly used in:
- Toothpastes and mouthwashes for a clean, cooling feeling without overpowering mint flavors.
- Facial cleansers and toners that provide a refreshing sensation upon application.
- After-sun skincare products that soothe and cool the skin.
- Shaving creams and aftershaves that reduce irritation and provide comfort.
- Hair products that deliver a cooling sensation to the scalp.
Pharmaceutical Uses
In pharmaceuticals, WS-23 serves both functional and comfort purposes:
- Throat lozenges and cough syrups: Cooling helps soothe irritation.
- Topical pain relief products: Benefit from its cooling sensation.
- Respiratory medications: Cooling sensations can help patients feel relief.
- Oral care medications: Cooling helps mask unpleasant flavours.
Regulatory Status
WS-23 has been evaluated by various regulatory bodies worldwide. In the United States, it has been granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status by the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA) for use in food applications. In Europe, it’s listed in the EU Flavouring Regulation.
The compound is typically used in very small concentrations, usually between 0.01% and 0.2%, depending on the application, due to its potent cooling effect.
Cooling Agent WS-23 Benefits
WS-23 offers several distinct advantages that make it valuable for both commercial and therapeutic applications.
Superior Cooling Effect
WS-23 provides a clean, long-lasting cooling sensation without the strong minty flavour associated with traditional cooling agents like menthol. The cooling effect is described as more pleasant and less aggressive, making it ideal for applications where a subtle cooling sensation is desired.
Odorless and Tasteless
One of the most significant advantages of Symcool WS-23 is its virtually odorless and tasteless nature. This makes it perfect for use in products where additional flavors or scents would be undesirable. The cooling effect can be experienced without altering the intended flavour profile of a product.
Longer Duration
Compared to other cooling agents, WS-23 typically provides a more prolonged cooling sensation, making it cost-effective and efficient for various applications.
Stability
WS-23 demonstrates excellent stability across a range of pH levels and temperatures. This stability ensures consistent performance across diverse product formulations and storage conditions.
Cooling Agent WS-23 in E-Liquid and Vaping Products
The integration of WS-23 into e-liquid formulations has opened new possibilities for product development. Traditional fruit flavours, which might clash with menthol’s distinct taste profile, can be enhanced with cooling sensations that complement rather than compete with the primary flavour notes. Beverage-inspired e-liquids have particularly benefited from WS-23 incorporation. Lemonade, iced tea, and soft drink flavours can achieve more realistic profiles when Symcool WS-23 is employed to simulate the sensation of ice-cold beverages. The cooling agent allows manufacturers to create products that evoke the experience of drinking a freshly chilled beverage without relying on menthol, which would introduce flavour notes inconsistent with most beverage profiles.
Dosage and Implementation Considerations
Proper dosage of WS-23 in e-liquid formulations requires careful consideration and testing. The compound is typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 3% by weight in the final product, though optimal levels vary significantly depending on the desired intensity of cooling effect and the specific flavour profile being enhanced. Lower concentrations provide subtle coolness that enhances without dominating, while higher concentrations deliver more pronounced cooling sensations comparable to traditional menthol products.
Formulation chemists must account for individual sensitivity variations among consumers. Some users perceive cooling agents more intensely than others, making it important for manufacturers to test their products across diverse consumer panels. Additionally, the perception of cooling can vary depending on the device used, the power settings employed, and the airflow configuration, all of which affect the delivery and perception of WS-23 in the vapour. The solubility characteristics of WS-23 also merit attention during formulation. While the compound dissolves readily in propylene glycol, it requires more vigorous mixing in vegetable glycerin-heavy bases. Many manufacturers prepare concentrated stock solutions of WS-23 in propylene glycol before incorporating it into their base formulations, ensuring even distribution throughout the final product.
Advantages Over Alternative Cooling Agents
The neutral taste profile of WS-23 represents perhaps its most significant advantage. While menthol and mint oils contribute distinct flavours that limit their applicability to certain profiles, WS-23 can be incorporated into virtually any flavour system without introducing unwanted taste elements. This versatility has made it a staple ingredient for manufacturers seeking to expand their product lines with cooling variants of existing flavours.
Compared to other synthetic cooling agents such as WS-3, WS-23 generally provides a more balanced cooling profile with less lingering effect. This allows for a cleaner transition between puffs and reduces the potential for palate fatigue that can occur with some other cooling compounds. The relatively quick onset and moderate duration of WS-23’s cooling effect contribute to a more natural sensory experience.
Safety and Regulatory Landscape
Regulatory frameworks governing e-liquids and their constituents vary considerably across jurisdictions. The FDA regulates the additives, including WS-23, for e-cigarettes and e-liquids under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. The EU also regulates the approach to e-liquids through the Tobacco Products Directive, which establishes a management system for formula ingredients. Responsible manufacturers prioritize ingredient purity and implement quality control measures to ensure that WS-23 used in their formulations meets appropriate specifications. Third-party testing and certification can provide additional assurance regarding the quality and consistency of cooling agents used in e-liquid production. As the industry continues to mature, there is a growing emphasis on transparency regarding ingredient sourcing and quality verification.
Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
Consumer demand for cooling e-liquids has remained robust, with cooling variants consistently ranking among the most popular product categories. Market research indicates that cooling products appeal to both existing menthol users seeking alternatives and consumers who appreciate refreshing sensations but find traditional menthol flavours too intense or limiting. This broad appeal has encouraged manufacturers to develop extensive cooling product lines spanning diverse flavour categories. The trend toward customizable vaping experiences has also contributed to WS-23’s prominence. Some manufacturers offer cooling additives that allow users to modify the intensity of cooling in their preferred e-liquids, providing a degree of personalization that enhances user satisfaction. This approach recognizes that cooling preferences are highly individual and allows consumers to tailor their experience to their specific preferences.
A Compound of Cooling Agents for E-cigarette Liquid
30.7g of cooling agent compound A (including WS-23 (30g), WS-3 (0.5g), L-menthone (0.2g)) and 69.3g of propylene glycol are added to a reagent bottle, mixed at room temperature, and fully dissolved and mixed evenly using a vortex oscillator to obtain a cooling agent compound A solution, wherein the mass fraction of cooling agent compound A is 30.7% (the mass ratio of WS-23: WS-3: L-menthone is 150:2.5:1).
Nicotine (3g), watermelon flavor solution (25g, with PG (propylene glycol) as solvent, watermelon flavor mass fraction 5%), propylene glycol and glycerol mixed solution (62g, weight ratio of propylene glycol to glycerol 3:2) and cooling agent compound A solution (10g) are mixed at room temperature, and vortex oscillator is used to oscillate evenly to obtain electronic cigarette atomization liquid. The mass fraction of the cooling agent compound A in the final atomized liquid is 3.07%.
In conclusion, WS-23 represents an innovative cooling agent that offers numerous benefits over traditional alternatives. Its unique properties make it versatile across multiple industries, providing product developers with new opportunities to enhance consumer experiences through cooling sensations without compromising other product attributes. As a bulk Symcool WS-23 manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of cooling agent WS-23 at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.





