Menthyl Lactate (ML) is a menthol derivative—a long-lasting cooling agent produced through the esterification reaction of natural (or synthetic) menthol and lactic acid. At room temperature, it appears as a white crystalline powder or a colorless liquid, possessing a very faint minty aroma. It is recognized as an excellent cooling agent that is free from adverse reactions such as burning sensations, irritation, or stinging.
Naturally occurring Menthyl Lactate was discovered in Indian dementholized corn mint oil in 2006; consequently, it may be labeled as a natural or nature-identical product.
Menthyl Lactate
Product Characteristics:
Chemical Name: 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid 5-methyl-2-isopropylcyclohexyl ester / L-Menthyl Lactate
CAS No.: 59259-38-0 or 61597-98-6
FEMA No.: 3748
Molecular Formula: C₁₃H₂₄O₃
Molecular Weight: 228.33
Appearance: White needle-like crystals or powder
Melting Point: 40–47°C
Purity: ≥98% or ≥99%
Aroma: Faint chamomile or tobacco-like aroma, with a very mild minty cooling sensation
Menthyl Lactate (ML) is a menthol derivative—a long-lasting cooling agent
Menthyl Lactate
Core Advantages (Compared to Traditional Menthol):
Non-irritating to Skin: Non-irritating to mucous membranes; suitable for products designed for sensitive skin.
Does Not Mask Fragrance: Possesses only a faint odor, allowing for flexible pairing with various fragrances to create cooling products free of a minty taste/scent.
Long-lasting Cooling Effect: Provides a long-lasting, gentle cooling sensation, in contrast to the intense, short-lived stimulation typical of menthol.
Ease of Use: Crystalline form disperses easily, simplifying the production process.
Good Compatibility: Does not adversely affect other product properties, facilitating ease of formulation design.
Menthyl Lactate (ML) is a menthol derivative—a long-lasting cooling agent
Key Application Areas:
1. Food & Beverages:
Functional candies, chewing gum, non-alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, alcoholic beverages, instant coffee and tea, fruit ice products, gelatin puddings, breakfast cereals, dairy products.
2. Oral Care:
Toothpaste, mouthwash, oral fresheners.
3. Cosmetics & Skincare:
Skincare products for sensitive skin, scalp care products, after-sun repair products, aftershave care.
4. Pharmaceutical Products:
Anti-itch creams, cooling balms, topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory products.
Menthyl Lactate
Recommended Usage Levels (Food Grade):
Food Category: Recommended Dosage (mg/kg)
Non-alcoholic beverages, cold drinks: 30 ~ 120
Alcoholic beverages: 100 ~ 400
Seasonings, instant coffee and tea: 100 ~ 400
Fruit ice products: 100 ~ 400
Chewing Gum: 1000 ~ 2000
Hard Candy: 1000 ~ 2000
Frosting, Soft Candy: 500 ~ 2000
Breakfast Cereals: 15 ~ 60
Cheese, Dairy Substitutes: 15 ~ 60
Sauces, Snack Foods, Soup Bases: 25 ~ 100
Gelatin, Pudding, Dairy Products: 200 ~ 800
Baked Goods: 60 ~ 250
Recommended Usage for Cosmetics/Skincare: 0.1% ~ 2.0% (Generally recommended: 0.5% ~ 1%)
Menthyl Lactate (ML) is a menthol derivative—a long-lasting cooling agent
Menthyl Lactate