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_DEFINITION:_ Melted menthol flakes are derived from menthol oil, which is found in strong aromatic herb called mint (pudina). Menthol flake is a transparent white liquid with strong mint
odor. Menthol oil liquid is rotated in centrifuge to separate oil and flakes where largely 30% is oil and 70% is flakes. Menthol flakes are further processed to obtain menthol crystals.
_DESCRIPTION:_ In the food industry, it is used to make flavor compounds, gutka, paan masala, mint etc. Menthol flakes are also used in the pharmaceutical industry, flavoring and perfume
industry. Because of its strong mint odor it's used in making chewing gums, toothpastes, and mouth wash. Its medicinal values make it common in making balms for pain & aches. The
tobacco industry is the largest consumer of menthol flakes followed by food and pharma industries. India is the largest producer and exporter of menthol flakes producing as much as 70% of
world total production. Other major producers are China, Brazil, the US and Japan. Major importers are Germany, France etc. In India, Uttar Pradesh is the major producer which accounts for
80% of total India production. Bihar, Punjab and Haryana are other states which contribute in menthol flakes production. Menthol flakes production is done from June to Nov. Major centers are
Moradabad, Rampur, Barabanki, Sitapur and Lucknow in the central Uttar Pradesh. Its prices are mainly affected by mint crop production, global demand, excessive outputs and less players in
market. Its futures are in India only and are listed on MCX.