Aroma compound

Aroma Compounds Overview

• Aroma compounds are chemical compounds with smells or odors.
• Fragrant fruits like strawberries contain hundreds of aroma compounds.
• Molecules with molecular weights under 310 are typically aroma compounds.
• Flavors impact taste and smell, while fragrances only affect smell.
• Aroma compounds are found in foods, wines, spices, perfumes, and essential oils.

Specific Aroma Compounds

• Carvone can have two different smells based on its chirality.
• Aldehydes at low concentrations can evoke various aromas.
• Thioacetone has a potent smell detectable from a distance.
• Various mercaptans like allyl thiol and methanethiol have distinct odors.
• Chemicals like furan-2-ylmethanethiol and benzyl mercaptan contribute to specific smells.

Aroma Compound Detection and Receptors

• Animals detect aroma compounds using olfactory receptors.
• Olfactory receptors are expressed on the surface of sensory neurons.
• Aroma compounds can be identified using gas chromatography-olfactometry.
• In mammals, olfactory receptors are located in the nasal cavity.
• Detection of aroma compounds involves human operators in GC sniffing effluent.

Safety, Regulation, and Chemicals in Fragrances

• Fragrance mix was a prevalent allergen in patch tests.
• Fragrances can cause health issues like migraines and respiratory difficulties.
• Fragrances in the US are regulated by the FDA and CPSC.
• The International Fragrance Association listed 3,059 chemicals used in fragrances.
• Fragrances contain various chemicals like diacetyl, acetoin, and nerolin.

Fragrance Industry and Health Implications

• Fragranced consumer products emit chemicals that can impact air quality and health.
• Awareness of fragrance ingredients is crucial for individuals with skin sensitivities.
• The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) maintains a Transparency List of fragrance ingredients.
• Fragrance regulations aim to ensure consumer safety and product quality.
• Understanding the health implications of cosmetic fragrances is essential for public health awareness.

Aroma compound Data Sources