luktstoff

Luktstoff is a broad term used to describe any substance with a detectable odor, i.e., an odorant. Luktstoffer are typically volatile organic compounds that interact with olfactory receptors in the nose. They can be natural, derived from plants or animals in essential oils and extracts, or synthetic, produced for flavors and fragrances.

Most luktstoffer are used to impart or modify aroma in consumer products such as foods, beverages, perfumes, cosmetics, personal care products, and household cleaners. In flavors and fragrances, they are often combined into complex mixtures to create specific scent profiles.

Chemically, luktstoffer span a wide range of compound classes, including terpenes (limonene, pinene), esters (ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate), alcohols (phenylethyl alcohol), aldehydes (citral), sulfur- or nitrogen-containing compounds. They are characterized by their odor thresholds—the minimum concentration detectable by the human nose—which are often very low.

Evaluation of luktstoffer relies on sensory analysis and instrumental techniques such as gas chromatography–olfactometry, which couples chromatographic separation with human odor detection to identify aroma-active compounds.

Regulatory frameworks address safety and labeling. Many jurisdictions require disclosure of certain fragrance allergens or restrict specific compounds due to safety concerns. Responsible use emphasizes dose, stability, and compatibility with other ingredients.

Common examples include limonene (citrus), linalool (floral), vanillin (vanilla), isoamyl acetate (banana).