Flavouring a foodstuff by incorporating an effective amount of at least one compound of the formula r1-s-r2 in which r1 and r2 represent a specific atom or group

摘要

NEW MATERIAL: A compound of formulal(R is 1~6C alkyl other than ethyl, 2~6C alkenyl). EXAMPLE: 2-Methyl 2-mercaptopropionate. USE: A durable flavor and taste imparting agent usable for foods, drinks, cosmetics, healthy and hygienic use, medicines, etc. PROCESS: A 2-mercaptopropionic acid of formula II (R' is H, 1~6C alkyl or 2~6C alkenyl) is esterified with an aliphatic alcohol of the formula R' (OH) in the presence of a catalyst, e.g. an inorganic acid such as sulfuric acid or organic acid such as acetic acid, in an azeotropic solvent, e.g. benzene, at 60~100° C. to give the compound of formulaleasily in high purity and yield. The molar amount of the aliphatic alcohol to be used is 1~20 times, preferably 2~5 times, that of the compound of formula II. The amount of the catalyst to be used is 0.1~10 wt % based on the compound of formula II.