The World of Smell

IFF's robotic mixers blend ingredients for samples that are sent to clients. Technicians still mix oils by hand when creating a new scent or flavor, but it is more efficient to use automated mixing when assembling batches of samples for outside clients. As part of its research program, IFF has been developing a database of smells and the reactions they draw from consumers. Each scent component is tested individually, separately from finished fragrances. Thousands of consumers in more than 30 countries have participated in studies in which they are asked to associate a particular smell with textures, feelings, and product-types. Although reactions vary, IFF's database helps its scientists identify certain psychological reactions a particular combination of scent components may evoke.