Dosage of flavors

The flavors of a food or cosmetic product result from a complex balance of volatile and semi-volatile compounds responsible for its organoleptic properties. Their analysis is essential for characterizing an aromatic profile, verifying the conformity of a formulation, or developing new recipes. Flavor assays allow the identification and quantification of the aromatic molecules present, whether they are of natural origin or derived from artificial flavors.

Analytical methods for flavor determination

Flavor analysis is mainly based on gas chromatography, the reference technique for volatile compounds:

• GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detection): robust and reliable method for quantifying the molecules responsible for the main flavors.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry): a high-sensitivity tool for precisely identifying aromatic compounds, even those present in trace amounts.

These approaches can be combined with solid-phase microextraction (SPME) techniques to enrich the analysis of complex matrices. They are similar to those used for aroma determination or volatile compound determination .

Industrial and sectoral applications

The dosage of flavors applies in many contexts:

• Human food: development and quality control of beverages, prepared meals, dairy products, confectionery or fermented products.
• Nutraceuticals: formulation and standardization of flavored powders, nutritional bars and food supplements.
• Animal nutrition: adjustment of aromatic profiles to improve the palatability of formulations.
• Cosmetics and perfumery: control and optimization of the sensory profiles of extracts, essential oils, creams and perfumes.

This analysis contributes to the control of sensory quality and is integrated into food or cosmetic innovation projects.

Matrices analyzed for flavors

YesWeLab supports flavor analysis in a wide variety of matrices: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, dairy products, culinary preparations, nutraceutical powders, plant extracts, essential oils, and cosmetic formulations. Each matrix benefits from a tailored preparation to ensure representative and reliable results.

Quality and compliance issues

The dosage of flavors makes it possible to respond to several strategic challenges:

• Develop and refine unique and reproducible flavor profiles.
• Check the regulatory compliance of the flavors and additives used.
• Preserve brand image by ensuring sensory consistency between production batches.
• Supporting R&D innovation through the precise characterization of new aromatic sources.

These issues are similar to those of the dosage of additives and the dosage of impurities , which also contribute to controlling product quality.

YesWeLab's expertise in flavor dosage

YesWeLab relies on a network of more than 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, accredited ISO 17025 and COFRAC, specializing in the analysis of aromatic compounds. Our scientific team selects the most suitable method according to your matrices and your objectives: product development, quality control, or regulatory compliance. Thanks to our digital platform, you can manage your analyses with ease: online quote request, sample tracking, and rapid return of results. Since 2020, numerous manufacturers in the food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries have trusted us for the sensory characterization of their products.

Take action

Do you want to characterize the flavor profile of your food, nutraceutical, or cosmetic products? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for precise and reliable flavor determination. Request a quote online today.