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1. Definition

• Flavors: Chemical compounds or natural extracts that impart taste and aroma to food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals.
• Fragrances: Volatile compounds or blends used in perfumes, cosmetics, detergents, and household products to provide pleasant scents.

2. Sources

• Natural: Derived from plants (essential oils, spices), animals (musk, ambergris), or fermentation.
• Synthetic: Chemically produced to mimic natural aromas (e.g., vanillin, coumarin) or create novel scents/tastes.

3. Key Applications

• Food & Beverages: Enhances taste in processed foods, soft drinks, and snacks.
• Cosmetics & Perfumes: Provides signature scents in perfumes, soaps, and lotions.
• Household Products: Adds freshness to detergents, air fresheners, and candles.
• Pharmaceuticals: Masks bitter tastes in medicines (e.g., syrups, chewable tablets).

4. Industry Importance

• Market Size: A multi-billion-dollar global industry driven by consumer demand for variety and sensory appeal.
• Innovation: Focus on clean-label, natural ingredients and sustainable production methods.

5. Examples

• Flavors: Citrus oils (lemon), vanilla extract, monosodium glutamate (umami).
• Fragrances: Rose oil, sandalwood, synthetic musk.