These raw material articles generally fall into two main categories: familiar raw materials that have unexpected uses and unfamiliar raw materials that seem to me to have been insufficiently appreciated. 2,5-Dimethyl 3-(2H)-furanone (FEMA# 4101, CAS# 14400-67-0) definitely fits into the latter category.
The relatively limited number of candy floss/burnt sugar aroma ingredients all have a common characteristic in that they seem to work unusually well when they are used in combination with one another. 2,5-Dimethyl 3-(2H)-furanone makes a very worthwhile contribution to this ubiquitous repertoire, and works especially well when used in combinations with other similar ingredients. This molecule has an obvious fruity, candy floss aroma that is well-suited to many fruit profiles, but it also has a burnt sugar element that performs interestingly in any heated flavor category.
The useful ability to sit astride fruit and brown categories with equal comfort is not the only distinguishing characteristic of this raw material. It is also much more volatile than the other members of this useful odor family, and hence has a unique ability to add top note impact and lift to flavors.
