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Maltol and ethyl maltol are both food flavoring compounds commonly used in food and beverages. The main difference between the two lies in their chemical structures and properties.

Maltol, also known as 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one, is a naturally occurring organic compound. It has a sweet, caramel-like aroma and is often used to enhance the flavor of various food products. Maltol is water-soluble and is known for its ability to enhance the perception of sweetness in food and beverages, even at low concentrations. It is commonly used in baked goods, desserts, dairy products, and confectionery.

Ethyl maltol, on the other hand, is a derivative of maltol in which an ethyl group is attached to the pyran ring. Its chemical name is ethyl 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyran-4-one. Ethyl maltol shares a similar sweet, caramel-like aroma with maltol but is considered to have a more intense and longer-lasting sweetness. This compound is also more soluble in alcohol than maltol and is often used in alcoholic beverages and flavoring formulations that contain alcohol.

In summary, maltol and ethyl maltol are flavoring compounds with similar sweet, caramel-like aromas, but ethyl maltol is considered to have a more intense sweetness and is more soluble in alcohol compared to maltol.