2-Ethyl-3-methyl-4-hydroxydihydro-2,5-furan-5-one (Ethyl Fenugreek Lactone)

2-Ethyl-3-methyl-4-hydroxydihydro-2,5-furan-5-one, widely recognized in the flavor industry as Ethyl Fenugreek Lactone (FEMA 3153), is a premium furanone derivative that delivers an exceptionally rich and complex sensory profile. With the molecular formula C₇H₁₀O₃ and a molecular weight of 142.15, this versatile flavor ingredient has become indispensable for flavorists seeking to create authentic sweet, brown, and fruit-based flavor systems.

Officially listed under CAS Number 698-10-2 and FEMA Number 3153, this product is also cataloged under GB2760 Code S0242, confirming its regulatory approval for use as a food additive within the Chinese market. It meets the rigorous quality standards set forth in GB29938-2020, the general standard for flavoring agents, ensuring consistent purity and performance for professional flavor formulation.

The organoleptic profile of Ethyl Fenugreek Lactone is truly distinctive. It exhibits a sweet, maple-like, and caramel aroma that forms the foundation of many brown flavor systems. Remarkably, it also possesses nuanced fruity notes reminiscent of berries, alongside subtle meaty undertones. This unique combination of sweet and savory characteristics makes it exceptionally versatile, capable of enhancing everything from confectionery and baked goods to savory applications such as sauces, seasonings, and meat products.

In terms of physical properties, this product typically appears as a light yellow transparent liquid. It is characterized by a relative density (25°C/25°C) ranging from 1.134 to 1.144 and a refractive index (20°C) between 1.486 and 1.493. With a melting point of 31–35°C, the product may solidify at lower temperatures; however, this does not affect its quality, and it can be easily liquefied by gentle warming before use. The purity is guaranteed at ≥ 97.5% by gas chromatography, ensuring a clean and potent flavor impact.

Ethyl Fenugreek Lactone (FEMA 3153) is highly recommended for use in a variety of applications, including caramel flavorings, berry flavorings (such as strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry), sweet flavorings, maple syrup, butterscotch, toffee, coffee, and even meat and savory flavor systems where a rich, caramelized note is desired. Its exceptional potency allows for a recommended usage level of only 0.5 to 1 μg/g (ppm) , making it a highly cost-effective solution for achieving deep, lingering sweetness and complexity.

The product is professionally packaged in 1 kg or 5 kg aluminum bottles under nitrogen protection to maintain stability and prevent oxidation. For optimal shelf life, it should be stored in a cool, dry place under refrigeration, where it remains stable for up to 12 months. Upon opening, it is recommended to use the product immediately or dilute it with solvents such as propylene glycol to prevent degradation. Due to its relatively high melting point, the product may solidify under refrigeration; it must be completely melted and homogenized before testing or use.

With its unparalleled combination of sweet, fruity, and savory notes, combined with exceptional purity and stability, 2-Ethyl-3-methyl-4-hydroxydihydro-2,5-furan-5-one (Ethyl Fenugreek Lactone) stands as an essential building block for creating authentic, high-impact flavors that meet the evolving demands of today's food and beverage industry.