The development of process flavors

Abstract The scientific, artistic and regulatory aspects of process flavors are reviewed. The role of the flavorist, as it relates to the creation of process flavors for commercial purposes, is discussed. An overview of the chemistry and analytical techniques used as tools for the artistic approach is also given. In addition, the development of ‘building blocks’ for flavor creation is discussed, and comparisons are made between the methods used for the creation of classical flavors versus process flavors. Finally, the regulations relating to the safety and labeling of these flavors are considered.