Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC, CAS 57-06-7) is a volatile organic compound responsible for the characteristic pungent taste and aroma of mustard, horseradish and wasabi.
Natural AITC
In cruciferous plants, AITC is formed from naturally occurring precursors, particularly sinigrin, through the action of the enzyme myrosinase. Mustard, including Brassica juncea L., is an important botanical source of AITC.
Natural AITC can be obtained from plant material, followed by separation and purification. Commercial products may therefore be supplied as Natural Mustard Essential Oil with AITC content ≥97%.
Why is AITC interesting for industry?
AITC combines several important properties: a distinctive pungent flavour and aroma, high volatility and well-documented antimicrobial activity. For this reason, the same molecule is used or investigated in several very different industrial fields.
Main areas of application
Food and flavour industry. AITC is used as a flavouring component in mustard, horseradish and wasabi products, sauces, seasonings, snacks and other foods requiring a characteristic pungent profile.
Food preservation. The antimicrobial properties of AITC have been investigated for meat, fish and seafood, vegetables and other perishable foods.
Active packaging. Due to its volatility, AITC can act in the vapour phase. Films, sachets, capsules and controlled-release systems are therefore being investigated to deliver AITC without directly adding it to the food.
Pharmaceutical and biomedical research. The biological activity of AITC is the subject of extensive scientific research. These prospective applications should be distinguished from established food and flavour uses.
One molecule — very different commercial products
Products offered under the name AITC / CAS 57-06-7 can range in price from approximately $10 to €200–280 per kilogram and above.
The same CAS number does not necessarily mean the same commercial product. Important differences include natural or synthetic origin, botanical source, production process, purity, intended application, analytical documentation, traceability and regulatory status for the target market.
AITC is therefore not a single commercial proposition. Its value and suitability depend on what the buyer needs: a chemical compound, a flavour ingredient, a botanical product or a documented natural industrial raw material.