flavourist

A flavourist is a person who specializes in creating and designing taste formulations for various food and beverage products. They are fragrance chemists who have a deep understanding of the composition and characteristics of flavour compounds, which allows them to create unique and complex flavour profiles.

Flavourists typically work in the food industry, developing new and innovative flavours for a wide range of products such as soft drinks, juices, savoury snacks, desserts, and condiments. Their expertise is crucial in replicating the taste of natural products, such as fruit and spices, and creating new and original flavour combinations that can inspire consumer appetite.

To become a flavourist, a person generally needs to possess a strong background in flavour chemistry, fragrance, and food technology. This requires knowledge of flavour compounds, their properties, and how they interact with each other. Many flavourists hold advanced degrees in food science, chemistry, or biochemistry, and may also obtain professional certifications from organizations such as the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST).

In their daily work, flavourists may blend different flavour compounds to create a desired taste, conduct sensory panel evaluations to test the acceptability of new flavours, and collaborate with food manufacturers to create custom flavour formulations for specific products. With the increasing demand for unique and exotic flavours in the global food market, the role of flavourists has become highly sought after. Their expertise plays a critical role in developing innovative and successful new products that can capture the attention of discerning consumers.