Biotech, allergens and sustainability: Euromonitor on the future of fragrances

Maria Coronado, Senior Ingredients Analyst with market research provider Euromonitor​ and Doctor in Chemical Engineering, explained the current state of the segment, and likely innovations and trends up ahead:

Digital technology shaping the future of fragrances​
There are some interesting advances in the field of biotechnology that allow replicating the chemical composition of natural fragrances using microbial fermentation.

Big players such as Givaudan or Firmenich, already produce microbial based “nature-identical’ fragrances.

The next step would be to use biotechnology to remove allergens naturally present in botanical ingredients without detrimental alteration in the fragrance profile.
‘Renewable’ aromas from waste​
In an overpopulated world with limited natural resources and increasing GPD from developing areas which are buying more beauty products, there is a huge potential for eco-design fragrances using “renewable” aromas extracted from waste.

L’Oreal is leading the movement towards circular ingredients using quinoa waste as an ingredient in some of its products.

However, the sustainable extraction of aromas from waste at industrial scale is still a long road that needs further investment and research.

A promising future​
In a more futuristic landscape, there is potential for the development of digital fragrances and wearable aroma technologies.

The London-based Olfa Labs is in the process to develop a technology able to produce digital fragrances by replicating ambient aroma molecules.

Another great example is eScent, a wearable smart technology that dispenses personalised scents.

The smart technology that can be incorporated into apparel or jewellery uses biometric sensors able to pick up vital signs and emotions and gradually learn from the consumers using artificial intelligence.

One of the advantages that the technology could bring to the market is the risk of potential skin reaction since the essential oils are not sprayed directly on the skin.
The future seems promising with disrupting technologies able to enhance products experiences.

This will create opportunities for ingredients manufacturers to provide a new palette of sustainable fragrances that coupled with smart devices could allow consumers to enjoy full personalized sensory experiences.