What Makes WS-3 Stand Out Among Synthetic Cooling Agents?
In the crowded landscape of synthetic cooling compounds, WS-3 (N-Ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide, CAS 39711-79-0) has earned its reputation as the go-to choice for formulators who need powerful cooling without the mint aroma that traditional menthol brings. This makes it uniquely valuable in applications where flavor profiles must remain clean and unadulterated.
Technical Specifications of WS-3
| Chemical Name | N-Ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide |
| CAS Number | 39711-79-0 |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Purity | ≥99% |
| Cooling Character | Strong, sustained, non-minty, odorless |
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, propylene glycol, most cosmetic carriers |
Primary Applications of WS-3 in Industry
1. Oral Care Products
WS-3 is extensively used in toothpaste and mouthwash formulations because it delivers a clean, refreshing coolness without leaving any herbal or medicinal aftertaste. Consumers perceive the freshness as "just-brushed-clean" rather than "medicinal mint." Major oral care brands incorporate WS-3 at concentrations between 0.01%–0.05% in premium toothpaste lines.
2. Confectionery & Chewing Gum
The candy and gum industry relies on WS-3 for fruit-flavored products where a mint note would clash with the intended flavor profile. WS-3 allows formulators to create cooling sensations in strawberry, grape, citrus or tropical-flavored gums and hard candies while preserving the authentic taste of each flavor.
3. Beverages
Energy drinks, functional waters, and flavored beverages use WS-3 to add a refreshing "cool hit" that enhances the drinking experience without introducing competing aromatic notes. Typical usage ranges from 5–30 ppm depending on desired intensity.
WS-3 vs. Other Cooling Agents: When to Choose WS-3
- Choose WS-3 when: You need strong cooling but absolutely cannot have any mint smell or taste in your final product
- Choose WS-23 when: You want the fastest onset of cooling with maximum intensity and cost efficiency
- Choose WS-5 when: You need gentler, more subtle cooling with a smoother feel on the tongue
- Choose WS-27 when: Your target audience prefers a soft, gradual cooling experience
Formulation Tips for WS-3
- Dissolve first — Always pre-dissolve WS-3 in ethanol, PG or your carrier solvent before adding to aqueous systems to ensure even distribution
- Start low — Begin with 0.005%–0.02% and titrate upward; WS-3's potency means a little goes a long way
- Heat stability — WS-3 remains stable through pasteurization temperatures (up to 85°C), making it suitable for heat-processed foods
- pH tolerance — Works effectively across pH 3–9, covering nearly all food and cosmetic formulations
Sourcing WS-3 from Baisifu
Shaanxi Baisifu supplies WS-3 in quantities from 1kg lab samples to 500kg+ bulk orders, with full batch documentation including Certificate of Analysis (COA), Technical Data Sheet (TDS), and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). All batches are Eurofins-tested for heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial limits.
