This section focuses on an overview of L-menthyl acetate, DL- menthyl acetate, and natural menthyl acetate, as well as their manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to menthyl acetate manufacturers, supply chain issues, menthyl acetate suppliers, and menthyl acetate prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality L-menthyl acetate, DL- menthyl acetate, and natural menthyl acetate in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on FEMA 2668 and CAS 2623-23-6, 16409-45-3, and 89-48-5.
Table of Contents
What is Menthyl Acetate?
Menthyl acetate plays a crucial role as a cooling agent and mint-like aroma compound in the food, flavor, and fragrance industries. It is an ester formed by the reaction between menthol and acetic acid. Menthyl acetate consists of a menthol backbone with an acetate group attached. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a distinct minty, fruity aroma and cooling sensation when applied to skin or mucous membranes. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), menthyl acetate is approved to be used in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. It has also been evaluated by relevant regulatory authorities like JECFA, EUR-Lex, ECHACHEM, RIFM, NIST, and WHO. The IFRA Transparency List provides a guideline to ensure the use of menthyl acetate in food, flavor and fragrance, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
L-Menthyl Acetate
L-menthyl acetate, also known as (-)-menthyl acetate, is the naturally occurring isomer of menthyl acetate. This specific stereoisomer is what gives natural mint oils their characteristic cooling effect and minty aroma.
Key characteristics:
- It is the predominant form found in nature.
- Possesses a strong cooling effect.
- Has a clean, fresh mint note with subtle fruity undertones.
- Contains only one stereoisomer with a specific spatial arrangement of atoms.
L-menthyl acetate occurs naturally in peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) and other mint species, albeit in relatively small concentrations (typically 2-8% depending on the mint variety and growing conditions). The L-form is highly valued in premium fragrances, high-end cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications where the purity and specific sensory properties are essential. When derived from natural sources through extraction and purification from mint oils, it commands a higher price than synthetic alternatives.
DL-Menthyl Acetate
DL-menthyl acetate, also called menthyl acetate racemic, is a mixture containing equal parts of L-menthyl acetate and D-menthyl acetate. The “DL” prefix indicates that it contains both enantiomers (mirror-image molecules) of menthyl acetate.
Key characteristics:
- Produced primarily through synthetic methods,
- Contains an equal mixture of both stereoisomers.
- Exhibits a somewhat less intense cooling effect compared to pure L-menthyl acetate.
- Often more cost-effective than the pure L-isomer.
- Generally used in applications where absolute stereochemical purity is not critical.
The D-isomer (which makes up half of DL-menthyl acetate) has a significantly weaker cooling effect and slightly different organoleptic properties compared to the naturally occurring L-isomer. This results in DL-menthyl acetate having approximately 40-60% of the cooling potency of pure L-menthyl acetate, depending on the specific application.
DL-menthyl acetate is commonly produced through chemical synthesis, often starting with racemic menthol (DL-menthol), which is then esterified with acetic acid or acetic anhydride.
Natural Menthyl Acetate
Natural menthyl acetate refers specifically to menthyl acetate that is derived from natural sources without chemical modification of the core molecular structure. It is predominantly the L-form, as this is what naturally occurs in plants.
Key characteristics:
- Extracted from natural mint oils, particularly peppermint and cornmint.
- Can be produced through bioprocessing using enzymes to catalyze the esterification of naturally derived menthol.
- Contains primarily the L-isomer but may include trace amounts of other naturally occurring compounds.
- Often marketed as “natural” or “organic” for consumer products.
- Typically more expensive than synthetic versions.
Natural menthyl acetate can be obtained through several methods:
- Direct extraction from mint essential oils.
- Enzymatic esterification of natural menthol.
- Biotechnological processes using microbial fermentation.
The natural product is particularly valued in natural cosmetics, organic food flavorings, and aromatherapy applications where synthetic ingredients are avoided. Menthyl acetate in its various forms—L-menthyl acetate, DL-menthyl acetate, and natural menthyl acetate—represents an important ingredient in the fragrance, flavor, and personal care industries. While they share the same chemical formula, their differences in stereochemistry result in distinct sensory properties and applications. The choice between L-menthyl acetate, DL-menthyl acetate, or natural menthyl acetate in these applications typically depends on:
- Desired sensory properties and cooling effect.
- Cost constraints.
- Marketing positioning (natural vs. conventional).
- Regulatory requirements for the specific product category and region.
As consumer demand for natural ingredients continues to grow, natural menthyl acetate may see increased market share, though synthetic versions will likely remain important due to their cost-effectiveness and consistent supply.
CAS No.: 2623-23-6, 16409-45-3 and 89-48-5
CAS 2623-23-6: L-Menthyl Acetate
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of L-menthyl acetate is 2623-23-6.
Molecular Formula: C12H22O2
Molecular Mass: 198.30
Appearance: Colorless, clear liquid
Boiling Point: 99-100 °C @ Press: 5 Torr
Melting Point: <25 °C
Solubility: Soluble in alcohol; insoluble in water.
Other Names:
(-)-Menthyl acetate
L-Menthyl acetate
l-Menthyl acetate
l-Menthol acetate
l-(-)-Menthyl acetate
(-)-Menthol acetate
(-)-p-Menthyl acetate
Acetic acid (R)-menthyl ester
CAS 16409-45-3 and 89-48-5: DL-Menthyl Acetate (Racemic)
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS numbers of DL-menthyl acetate and menthyl acetate racemic are 16409-45-3 and 89-48-5, respectively.
Molecular Formula: C12H22O2
Molecular Mass: 198.30
Appearance: Colorless, clear liquid
Boiling Point: 227 °C
Melting Point: <25 °C
Solubility: Soluble in alcohol; insoluble in water.
Other Names:
(±)-Menthyl acetate
Menthyl acetate
dl-Menthyl acetate
(±)-Menthol acetate
(±)-Menthyl acetate
Symfresh RF
FEMA Number 2668
According to the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA), the numbers of L-menthyl acetate, DL- menthyl acetate, and natural menthyl acetate are FEMA 2668.
Menthyl Acetate Odor
Tea-like, slightly cooling, minty, and fruity. The odor of DL-menthyl acetate is weaker than that of L-menthyl acetate.
Bulk Menthyl Acetate Manufacturers
The global bulk menthyl acetate market includes several bulk manufacturers. Top menthyl acetate manufacturers like Symrise AG are major producers of flavors, fragrances, and aroma chemicals, including menthyl acetate. They’ve invested significantly in sustainable production methods and maintain high-quality standards for their aroma compounds. Chinese menthyl acetate manufacturers have expanded their production capacities substantially in recent years, supplying menthyl acetate to both domestic and international markets. As consumers continue to seek products with cooling sensations and refreshing mint characteristics, bulk menthyl acetate manufacturers will likely remain essential suppliers to multiple industries for the foreseeable future.
Sinofi is a bulk menthyl acetate manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of menthyl acetate cooling agent. We supply high-quality menthyl acetate at bulk prices and serve food, flavor and fragrance, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Menthyl Acetate
The manufacturing of menthyl acetate represents a blend of traditional chemical processing and modern green chemistry approaches.
L-Menthyl Acetate Manufacturing Process: Acetic Anhydride Method
An alternative approach uses acetic anhydride instead of acetic acid:
- Reactants: L-menthol and acetic anhydride.
- Catalyst: Pyridine or similar tertiary amine.
- Advantages: Faster reaction rate, higher purity.
- Disadvantages: Higher raw material costs, more complex handling requirements.
Natural Menthyl Acetate Manufacturing Process: Enzymatic Catalysis
Increasingly popular as a green chemistry alternative:
In a stainless steel reactor equipped with a stirrer, a water separator, and a thermometer, L-menthol, vinyl acetate, and a water-carrying agent are added in sequence. After stirring and dissolving, Amano lipase IME is added, and the reaction temperature is set to 25-35°C, and stirring is performed for 24 hours. The present invention adopts fixed Amano lipase IME, selects menthol and vinyl acetate for reaction, and the conditions are mild. Menthyl acetate can be biosynthesized under conditions of less than 35°C. The reaction conditions are convenient, the operation is simple, and a higher conversion rate can be achieved. The product ee value is greater than 99.0%, and the content is greater than 99.0%. At the same time, the fixed Amano lipase IME and the solvent can be recycled, thereby reducing the production cost.
As consumer demand for natural cooling agents increases, producers continue to innovate in process efficiency, product purity, and environmental sustainability.
Bulk Menthyl Acetate Suppliers
The global market for menthyl acetate is served by several bulk suppliers, each offering different advantages in terms of product grades and market prices. Top menthyl acetate suppliers like Symrise AG supply pharmaceutical and food-grade menthyl acetate with comprehensive documentation and regulatory compliance.
Sinofi is a bulk menthyl acetate supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality menthyl acetate cooling agent. We sell different grades of menthyl acetate at wholesale prices to food, flavor and fragrance, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Menthyl Acetate
The menthyl acetate supply chain is a complex network that spans agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and various end-use industries.
Supply Chain Structure Overview
The menthyl acetate supply chain exemplifies the complex interconnections of modern global commerce. From rural farms to sophisticated chemical facilities and ultimately consumer products, this network relies on coordinated efforts across continents. The menthyl acetate supply chain consists of five primary stages:
- Raw Material Production
- Primary Processing
- Chemical Synthesis
- Distribution
- End-Product Manufacturing
As consumer preferences shift toward transparency and sustainability, the menthyl acetate industry continues to adapt while maintaining the delicate balance between natural sourcing and chemical innovation.
Wholesale and Buy Menthyl Acetate in Bulk
Purchasing menthyl acetate in bulk represents a strategic advantage for manufacturers in the fragrance, flavor, and personal care industries. For businesses seeking reliable menthyl acetate suppliers, considerations should extend beyond mere pricing to include quality consistency, regulatory compliance, and supply chain reliability. By developing relationships with established menthyl acetate suppliers and staying informed about market trends, buyers can secure the high-quality menthyl acetate needed for their product development and manufacturing processes.
Advantages of Wholesale Purchasing Menthyl Acetate
Cost Efficiency
Bulk purchasing of menthyl acetate typically offers significant per-unit cost savings. Manufacturers can reduce expenditure by 15-30% compared to small-quantity orders, depending on volume and supplier relationships. These savings result from:
- Reduced packaging costs.
- Lower transportation expenses per unit.
- Volume-based discounts from suppliers.
- Decreased transaction and administrative costs.
Supply Chain Security
Establishing wholesale relationships with reliable menthyl acetate suppliers ensures:
- Consistent product availability
- Priority allocation during supply constraints
- Better forecasting and inventory management
- Quality consistency across batches
Quality Assurance
Reputable bulk menthyl acetate suppliers typically provide:
- Comprehensive certificates of analysis
- Consistent quality specifications
- Traceability documentation
- Compliance with relevant industry standards
As a bulk manufacturer and supplier of menthyl acetate in China, we supply high-quality menthyl acetate for food, flavor and fragrance, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. We also wholesale menthyl acetate to small customers. Normally, they want to buy menthyl acetate in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale menthyl acetate at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Menthyl Acetate Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade L-Menthyl Acetate Prices (purity >=98.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 14 USD | Express |
| 500g | 66 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 96 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Food Grade Natural Menthyl Acetate Prices (purity >=98.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 30 USD | Express |
| 500g | 150 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 215 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 20% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Food Grade DL-Menthyl Acetate Racemic Prices (purity >=98.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 17 USD | Express |
| 500g | 85 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 120 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
The global menthyl acetate prices have experienced significant volatility in these two years, driven by a complex interplay of supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages, and shifting demand patterns across key industries.
Supply Chain Factors
Several factors have contributed to the recent price movements in the menthyl acetate market. Production facilities in Europe and Asia, particularly in Germany and China, which account for approximately 60% of global output, experienced operational challenges this year. These disruptions coincided with increased demand from personal care manufacturers in China and US, creating upward pressure on prices. Additionally, the cost of key raw materials, including menthol and acetic anhydride, has risen by approximately 8-12% year-over-year, further contributing to the elevated market prices for menthyl acetate.
Furthermore, the above price quotations of menthyl acetate, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of menthyl acetate may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of menthyl acetate will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Menthyl Acetate Uses
Flavoring and Fragrance Uses
Menthyl acetate serves as an important ingredient in the flavor and fragrance industry. Its refreshing mint character, which is less intense than menthol itself, makes it ideal for:
- Mint-flavored confectionery, including chewing gums, candies, and chocolates.
- Oral care products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and breath fresheners.
- Beverages requiring a subtle mint note without overwhelming intensity.
- Fragrance compositions where a cooling effect is desired.
The compound’s ability to provide a milder cooling sensation than menthol makes it particularly valuable when formulators want to achieve a balanced mint profile.
Cosmetic and Personal Care Uses
In cosmetics and personal care, menthyl acetate offers several functional benefits:
- Provides a pleasant cooling sensation in skincare products like aftershaves and facial cleansers.
- Enhances the sensory experience in body lotions and massage oils.
- Contributes to the cooling effect in foot care products.
- Adds refreshing properties to hair care formulations.
The compound’s stability in various formulations makes it a reliable choice for manufacturers seeking consistent performance.
Pharmaceutical Uses
Menthyl acetate has found its way into pharmaceutical preparations for several reasons:
- Used in topical analgesic products to create a cooling sensation that helps mask pain.
- Incorporated into cough drops and throat lozenges for its soothing properties.
- Present in certain nasal decongestant formulations to enhance breathing comfort.
- Added to medications where taste masking is important for patient compliance.
Its relatively low irritation potential compared to some cooling agents makes it suitable for these sensitive applications.
Other Industrial Uses
Beyond consumer products, menthyl acetate serves various industrial functions:
- Used as a solvent in specialized applications.
- Employed as an intermediate in the synthesis of other flavor and fragrance compounds.
- Utilized in certain cleaning formulations for its pleasant scent profile.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Menthyl acetate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for its intended food applications. It biodegrades readily and presents minimal environmental concerns when used as directed. As with any chemical ingredient, appropriate handling practices should be followed in industrial settings.
The compound continues to grow in popularity as consumer preference for cooling sensations in products remains strong, establishing menthyl acetate as an important component in modern formulation technology.
Menthyl Acetate Benefits
Cooling Sensation Benefits
One of the most notable benefits of menthyl acetate is its ability to provide a pleasant cooling sensation without the intense mintiness often associated with menthol. This makes it particularly valuable in skincare and oral care products where a subtle cooling effect is desired without overwhelming the senses. The compound creates a refreshing feeling that lasts longer than menthol while being gentler on sensitive skin.
Enhanced Fragrance Benefits
In perfumery and cosmetic applications, menthyl acetate serves as an excellent fixative agent, helping to preserve and extend the longevity of fragrances. Its mild, minty-fruity scent adds a refreshing note to compositions without dominating other aromatic elements. This balanced profile makes it an ideal ingredient in colognes, aftershaves, and personal care products.
Anti-irritant and Soothing Effects
Research has shown that menthyl acetate possesses anti-irritant properties that can help soothe skin discomfort. When incorporated into topical formulations, it may help reduce redness and irritation while providing a cooling relief. This makes it valuable in products designed for sensitive skin conditions or post-sun exposure care.
Flavour Enhancement Benefits
In the food industry, menthyl acetate has found applications as a flavour enhancer that imparts a subtle coolness without the strong minty taste. It works well in chewing gums, candies, and beverages where a refreshing sensation is desired without overwhelming the primary flavour profile. Its milder taste compared to menthol makes it suitable for products targeting consumers who prefer less intense mint flavours.
Menthyl Acetate Used in E-Cigarettes
A Strawberry-Flavored Electronic Cigarette Liquid
Preparation of strawberry flavor essence
Add the following ingredients in parts by weight to 5 parts of propylene glycol: ethyl acetate, 0.8 parts; butyric acid, 0.5 parts; ethyl butyrate, 0.2 parts; ethyl isovalerate, 0.2 parts; cis-3-Hexenol, 0.2 parts; n-hexanol, 0.15 parts; isoamyl acetate, 0.18 parts; phytol acetate, 0.25 parts; furanone, 0.1 parts; isoamyl butyrate, 0.18 parts; 1,2-propylene glycol butyrate, 0.19 parts; maltol, 0.19 parts; benzoic acid, 0.18 parts; dihydrolinalool, 0.28 parts; dipropylene glycol diacetate, 0.19 parts; methyl cinnamate, 0.19 parts; cis-cinnamaldehyde, 0.19 parts; 3, 4-diethyl-3-hexanol, 0.1 parts; menthyl acetate, 0.08 parts; vanillin, 0.09 parts; and transferred to a food-specific vacuum disperser for mixing, and after mixing evenly, a strawberry flavor essence is obtained.
Preparation of electronic cigarette liquid
Add 2.4 parts of strawberry flavour to 6 parts of propylene glycol, and then add 0.3 parts of nicotine, and mix evenly to obtain strawberry flavour electronic cigarette liquid.
In conclusion, menthyl acetate represents an important compound in modern formulation science, offering benefits that span multiple industries and applications. Its balanced cooling properties, pleasant sensory profile, and potential soothing effects make it a valuable ingredient worth consideration by formulators seeking versatile components for their products. As a bulk manufacturer and supplier of menthyl acetate in China, we sell different grades of menthyl acetate at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.