Ethyl methylphenylglycidate facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ethyl methylphenylglycidate |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| IUPAC name | Ethyl 3-methyl-3-phenyloxirane-2-carboxylate |
| Other names | Ethyl methylphenylglycidate Strawberry aldehyde Aldehyde C-16 |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | |
| PubChem | |
| SMILES | CC(C2C(OCC)=O)(O2)C1=CC=CC=C1 |
| Properties | |
| Molecular formula | |
| Molar mass | 0 g mol-1 |
| Appearance | Colourless liquid |
| Density | 1.09-1.10 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | |
| Boiling point | |
| Insoluble | |
| Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) | |
Ethyl methylphenylglycidate, often called strawberry aldehyde, is a special organic compound. It's used a lot in the flavor industry. This means it helps make foods and drinks taste like fruit. It's especially famous for giving things a yummy strawberry flavor.
Contents
What is Strawberry Aldehyde?
Strawberry aldehyde is a chemical that smells and tastes like fresh strawberries. Even though it's called "aldehyde," it's actually a different type of chemical. It's a clear liquid that doesn't mix with water. Scientists make it in labs to create artificial fruit flavors.
How is it Used?
Because it smells so good, ethyl methylphenylglycidate is used in many products. It helps make things smell nice and taste delicious.
In Fragrances and Cosmetics
- Perfumes: It adds a sweet, fruity note to many perfumes.
- Soaps: It makes soaps smell fresh and clean.
- Beauty products: You might find it in lotions or shampoos.
- Detergents: It can give laundry detergents a pleasant scent.
In Food and Drinks
- Baked goods: Think of strawberry cakes or muffins.
- Candies: Many strawberry-flavored candies use this chemical.
- Ice cream: It helps give ice cream its strawberry taste.
- Other foods: It's used in various artificial fruit flavors.
How is it Made?
Scientists create ethyl methylphenylglycidate through a special process. This process is called a condensation reaction. It involves combining two smaller chemical parts. These parts are called acetophenone and the ethyl ester of monochloroacetic acid. They are mixed together with a base, which is a type of chemical that helps the reaction happen. This specific way of making it is known as the Darzens condensation.
Is it Safe?
Yes, strawberry aldehyde is considered safe to use. Scientists have done many studies on it. They found that even in large amounts, it doesn't cause harm. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even given it a special status. It's "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS). This means experts agree it's safe for people to use in food.
