The Intriguing Aroma Scents: What Do They Remind You Of?

Aroma is a distinctive, pervasive, and usually pleasant or savoury smell. It is a chemical compound that has a smell or odour. Aroma compounds can be found naturally in foods such as fruits, wine, spices, floral scents, perfumes, and essential oils. Aroma is often associated with plants, spices, and food, while fragrance is more correlated with perfume and flowers. Some examples of aromas include the smell of freshly brewed coffee, grilled onions, frying bacon, and freshly baked bread.

Aroma compounds in food and drink

Aroma compounds are one of the main food sensory characteristics that impact consumer preference and acceptance. They are volatile molecules that reach the olfactory tissue of the nasal cavity, where they are perceived as an aroma. Aroma compounds can be naturally present in foods as a consequence of physiological and/or enzymatic processes, as well as generated by microorganisms during fermentation processes.

Aroma compounds are mainly comprised of organic molecules present in the liquid or gaseous state, and are characterised by a low molecular weight (400 Da). The main aroma compound classes are:

• Organic acids
• Primary and secondary alcohols
• Amines and other nitrogen compounds
• Carbonyl compounds (aldehydes and ketones)
• Esters
• Lactones
• Oxygen-containing heterocyclic compounds (furanones and pyranones)
• Pyrazines
• Sulfur compounds
• Terpenes

Flavor results from compounds that are divided into two broad classes: those responsible for taste and those responsible for odors (aroma substances). However, there are compounds that provide both sensations. Compounds responsible for taste are generally non-volatile at room temperature and interact only with taste receptors located in the taste buds of the tongue. Aroma substances, on the other hand, are volatile compounds that can be perceived by the olfactory tissue of the nasal cavity.

Aroma compounds are generated by enzymatic activity, fermentation, lipid oxidation, and thermal reactions (Maillard reaction, caramelization). Heat-generated flavors are the most abundant group of volatile compounds in food.

Natural vs synthetic aromas

The use of natural fragrances dates back to ancient civilizations, where fragrances were a combination of plant or animal products blended with rich oils. However, in modern times, there is a growing debate about the use of natural versus synthetic fragrances. This discussion centres around the benefits and drawbacks of each type of fragrance and how they impact the environment, health, and consumer preferences.

Natural fragrances are derived from natural sources such as trees, plants, and animals. They are complex compounds extracted from nature and often include essential oils, oleoresins, distillates, and isolates. While these fragrances create beautiful aromas, they come with several challenges. Firstly, the extraction process can negatively impact the environment, with deforestation and animal cruelty being common issues. Recreating consistent natural fragrances is also difficult due to the influence of human interaction and climate change. Additionally, natural fragrances have a shorter shelf life, typically lasting only 1-2 years, and are more susceptible to souring.

On the other hand, synthetic fragrances are developed in laboratories, replicating natural accords without harming the environment. Synthetic fragrances offer several advantages over their natural counterparts. They are more stable and pure and have a longer shelf life, lasting up to five years. The use of fixatives in synthetic perfumes helps to stabilize the scent and release it slowly, resulting in a richer and denser fragrance experience. Synthetic fragrances also provide greater creative freedom for perfumers, as they can blend synthetic scents with essential oils to create countless variations.

The preference for natural fragrances is driven by the perception that they are greener, more sustainable, and safer for health. However, this perception may not always be accurate. Natural fragrances can have a higher allergen concentration and may contain harmful chemicals such as parabens and phthalates. Additionally, the extraction process for natural fragrances can be environmentally damaging, and the supply chain is often challenging due to specific cultivation requirements.

Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, are developed following green chemistry principles and biotechnology, minimizing their environmental impact. They enable the creation of aromatic molecules that cannot be extracted from natural sources, such as Lily of the Valley and strawberries. Synthetic fragrances also offer better consistency and are easier to manufacture due to the reproducibility of their components.

In conclusion, the choice between natural and synthetic fragrances depends on various factors, including environmental impact, sustainability, health concerns, and consumer preferences. While natural fragrances have their charm, synthetic fragrances offer advantages in terms of longevity, stability, and creative possibilities. Ultimately, the decision rests with the consumer's personal beliefs and fragrance needs.

Aroma and odour differences

While "aroma" and "odour" are both related to the sense of smell, they have different connotations. "Odour" typically refers to any smell, whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, while "aroma" is used to describe a pleasant or desirable scent. For example, the odour of rotten eggs is unpleasant, whereas the aroma of freshly baked bread is enticing.

"Odour" is often associated with foul smells, such as rotting garbage or sewage. Odours can be caused by a variety of sources, including bacteria, mould, and chemicals. They can be detected by the sense of smell and can trigger negative physical and emotional responses in humans and animals.

On the other hand, "aroma" is often associated with fragrances, such as fresh flowers or baked goods. Aromas can be created by natural sources, such as plants and essential oils, or by synthetic means, such as perfumes and air fresheners. Similar to odours, aromas can be detected by the sense of smell and can trigger positive physical and emotional responses in humans and animals.

In everyday life, it is important to distinguish between "aroma" and "odour" in certain contexts. For instance, when discussing the smell of a garbage dump, "odour" would be the appropriate term. In contrast, when describing the fragrance of a bouquet of flowers, "aroma" would be more fitting.

Furthermore, the distinction between "aroma" and "odour" is crucial in certain industries, such as perfumery and food preparation. For example, in perfumery, "aroma" is typically used to describe the pleasant scents of perfumes, while "odour" might be used for an unpleasant or overpowering scent. In the context of food preparation, the "aroma" of freshly baked bread or spices is appetising, whereas the "odour" of spoiled milk is off-putting.

Aromatic plants

Lavender is a well-known aromatic plant with a distinctive sweet floral fragrance and purple flowers. It has a wide range of applications, from soaps and oils to culinary uses such as candies, ice cream, and teas. Lavender is renowned for its relaxing properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

Roses are iconic flowers, synonymous with love and romance. The scent of a rose can vary depending on factors such as the type, colour, and age of the flower. The classic rose fragrance typically comes from dark-petalled varieties. Roses are used in a multitude of products, from perfumes and cosmetics to culinary delights.

Jasmine has a long history in the Middle East, where it has been used as a perfume and incense for thousands of years. The pearl-white flowers with delicate petals create an almost shared olfactory landscape, resulting in subconscious and shared experiences. Jasmine is commonly used in perfumes, scented sprays, bath products, and beauty products.

Lilac is another flower with a sweet, intoxicating scent, likened to a combination of lavender and wild berries. Of the 800 varieties of lilacs, only five species are known for their scent. Lilac is a popular choice for perfumers due to its pungent aroma and accessible oils. It is used in a range of products, from laundry detergents to candles.

Lemongrass has a unique citrusy scent and flavour, similar to lemons and other common citrus fruits. Its intense and lemony aroma, with a hint of fresh ginger, makes it a popular ingredient in Asian cuisines, teas, and marinades. Lemongrass is also used in various cosmetic and hygiene products.

Mint is a highly recognisable scent, with a variety of different plants producing distinct flavours such as spearmint, peppermint, apple mint, and orange mint. Mint is used extensively in edible products like gum and toothpaste, as well as fragrances, hygiene products, and candles.

Cedar Tree (Cedarwood) is valued for its deep, rich, woody fragrance. Cedar oil, known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, is derived from the tree and used in a range of beauty and fragrance products, including body wash, deodorants, and candles.

These are just a few examples of aromatic plants, but there are many more that can enhance your garden or indoor space with their delightful fragrances.

Aroma and health

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. It is an alternative medicine therapy that can be used alongside conventional medicine treatment. Aromatherapy has gained recognition in the fields of science and medicine for its ability to manage pain, ease digestion, boost relaxation, improve mood, and relieve menstrual symptoms, among other benefits.

Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as body oils, creams, lotions, and hot and cold compresses. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy and can be applied topically, ingested orally, or inhaled.

While aromatherapy has many benefits, it is important to use essential oils with caution. Some precautions to take include:

• Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.
• Perform a skin patch test before use.
• Avoid citrus essential oils if you will be exposed to sunlight, as they may increase sun sensitivity.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as children, should use essential oils under the supervision of a doctor.
• Do not swallow essential oils.

Essential oils can also cause side effects, especially if you take prescription medications. Some possible side effects include:

• Allergic contact dermatitis and primary contact dermatitis.
• Phototoxicity, which can cause skin damage.
• Oral toxicity, which can lead to central nervous system depression and chemical burns in the mouth, throat, and stomach.
• Eye irritation and chemical burns if the oil comes into contact with the eyes.

In addition to the potential side effects, there have been cases of false advertising and mislabelling of essential oils. It is important to purchase essential oils from reputable producers since they are not regulated by the FDA.

Frequently asked questions