What Is WS-5 Cooling Agent?
WS-5, chemically known as N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide, is a high-performance synthetic cooling agent widely used in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries. Identified by CAS number 68489-14-5, WS-5 represents one of the most potent cooling compounds available commercially, delivering an intense, long-lasting cooling sensation without the characteristic menthol odor or taste. This makes it particularly valuable in applications where a clean cooling effect is desired without interfering with the primary flavor profile.
Cooling Mechanism and Properties
WS-5 functions by activating the TRPM8 cold receptor in the mouth and skin, triggering the same neurological response as cold temperatures. Unlike natural menthol, WS-5 produces minimal aroma and flavor impact, making it virtually transparent in finished products. The cooling intensity of WS-5 is approximately 200-300 times stronger than menthol on a weight basis, requiring usage levels typically between 0.5 to 50 parts per million (ppm) depending on the application. The cooling effect develops quickly and persists for an extended duration, providing a satisfying and refreshing experience.
Comparative Advantages Over Menthol
WS-5 offers several distinct advantages compared to traditional menthol-based cooling:
- Odorless and flavorless: WS-5 does not introduce menthol aroma or bitter taste, preserving the integrity of the primary flavor system
- Higher potency: Requires significantly lower usage levels, reducing cost-in-use and potential formulation interactions
- Extended cooling duration: The cooling sensation lasts longer than menthol, providing sustained refreshment
- Excellent solubility: Dissolves readily in alcohol, propylene glycol, and essential oils for easy incorporation
- Heat stability: Maintains cooling effect through high-temperature processing including pasteurization and baking
Food and Beverage Applications
WS-5 finds extensive application across multiple food and beverage categories:
- Confectionery: Chewing gum, hard candies, mints, and compressed lozenges where long-lasting cooling is desired
- Beverages: Carbonated drinks, energy drinks, flavored waters, and alcoholic beverages seeking a refreshing edge
- Dairy: Ice cream, frozen yogurt, and dairy-based beverages with enhanced cooling refreshment
- Oral care: Toothpaste, mouthwash, and breath fresheners benefiting from extended cooling sensation
- Pharmaceuticals: Throat lozenges, cough syrups, and topical analgesic preparations
Formulation Guidelines
When formulating with WS-5, it is typically dissolved in a suitable carrier solvent such as ethanol, propylene glycol, or medium-chain triglyceride oil before incorporation into the final product. The recommended usage levels vary by application: 0.5-5 ppm for beverages, 5-20 ppm for confectionery, and 10-50 ppm for chewing gum and oral care products. WS-5 can be used alone or in combination with other cooling agents including WS-3, menthol, or menthyl lactate to create multi-dimensional cooling profiles. Formulators should conduct sensory testing to optimize the cooling level for each specific product.
Quality and Supply by Taima
Taima supplies premium-grade WS-5 cooling agent with purity exceeding 99% as verified by GC analysis. Our WS-5 is manufactured under GMP-certified conditions and meets FCC, USP, and EP quality specifications. We provide complete documentation including COA, MSDS, and regulatory compliance dossiers. Available in both powder and pre-dissolved solution forms, our WS-5 can be customized to your specific formulation requirements. With robust supply chain capabilities and worldwide distribution, we ensure reliable delivery for your production needs. Contact our technical team for formulation support and sample requests.