Manoj Arora is the chief perfumer, tobacco flavorist and managing director of Sacheerome Limited, a globally represented creative house offering innovative, out-of-the-box notes at accords to match best in the world Fragrances and flavors for over six decades.
Log in to view the full article
Manoj Arora is the chief perfumer, tobacco flavorist and managing director of Sacheerome Limited, a globally represented creative house offering innovative, out-of-the-box notes at accords to match best in the world Fragrances and flavors for over six decades.
Manoj Arora represents the third generation of a leading family in the aromatic industry. Under his leadership, Sacheerome has developed industry benchmarks for many mega brands globally. Having mastery over discerning the pulse of his consumers with innovative spirit, he continues to create iconic fragrances and tobacco flavors across categories.
Perfumer & Flavorist+ caught up with Arora to discuss current technologies and trends shaping the tobacco industry and what he sees as the next big trend on the horizon.
How is technology shaping the way we create tobacco-inspired fragrances and flavors?
Tobacco has always been associated with masculinity, rejuvenation and a stress buster, right from the ancient times even though its consumers are
Manoj Arora, chief perfumer, tobacco flavorist, managing director, Sacheerome LimitedCourtesy of Sacheerome Unlimited
Tobacco flavors on the other hand have really grown not only in the traditional products such as cigarettes and sheesha, but in newer electronic formats of smoking and oral tobacco products.
Technology has significantly shaped the way tobacco-inspired fragrances and flavors are created, enhancing both the production process and the end products. Here's how:
- Bioengineering: Advances in synthetic biology allow for the production of biotechnologically engineered tobacco molecules or derivatives. These engineered compounds can offer even more precise or novel versions of tobacco scents and flavors that might not exist in nature.
- Flavor Modulation: In the world of vaping, digital flavor modulation can help create more customizable tobacco-flavored e-liquids. By adjusting the balance of compounds, such as nicotine, sweetness, or smokiness, technology allows for more tailored, controlled flavors.
- Market Data: With access to large sets of data, companies can now more accurately predict consumer preferences and tailor their products to specific demographics. This can lead to better-targeted tobacco-inspired products that appeal to the right audience with precise flavor or scent profiles.
Are there any breakthrough techniques being used in creating more sustainable tobacco notes?
There are better techniques if not breakthroughs which do help a fragrance & flavor house in creating sustainable tobacco profiles, such as precision extraction. With the help of modern technologies like supercritical CO2 extraction, the process of obtaining tobacco scents has become more refined. This method allows for the extraction of essential oils and compounds from tobacco leaves without using heat, which helps retain more of the natural, nuanced aromas.
Another technique, cold-press extraction, involves minimal energy use and ensures that the tobacco essence is captured in its most natural form. It avoids the use of chemicals and high temperatures, which can degrade the aromatic compounds, making it a more sustainable choice.
What are some unique or unexpected ingredients being used to craft premium tobacco profiles?
Sacheerome has always believed in innovation and we are proud to have a number of in house developed captives in our palette across both our fragrance & flavors labs.
These ingredients are green, have a unique profile and can be scaled in abundance depending on the requirements. We as a company use them to give unique offerings to our range of products.
Our teams have been able to offer wonders using our captives and combining them with trendy ingredients such as oud, musk, fougere, rose, kewra (Pandanus odoratissimus) khus (vetiver) and Indian spices, especially Kashmiri saffron, cardamon and sandalwood oil.
The focus on wellness and mindfulness is transforming the scenario of tobacco flavors and fragrances.Michael Barkmann at Adobe Stock
What shifts in consumer preferences are you seeing, and how are these influencing tobacco-flavored products?
Consumers today are becoming more health-conscious and adventurous with their sense of choices. They want flavors that feel absolutely natural, fresh and functional. This in detail means that buyers have a tendency to go for products that provide benefits beyond just taste. Exotic and fusion flavors, like paan, grape, green apple and sweet rose are trending, as people explore global tastes.
Other than this, sustainability is another key factor that plays a crucial role here because consumers prefer brands that are using ethical sourcing and eco-friendly packaging. These shifts are driving innovation, with companies creating products that not only satisfy one’s taste buds but also support a healthier and more mindful lifestyle. Such shifts have also led to companies to rethink their formulations, aiming to deliver products that not only taste and smell good, but also contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Overall, the focus on wellness and mindfulness is transforming the scenario of tobacco flavors and fragrances, with consumers putting a priority on products that support their mental and physical well-being.
How do you see trends in "wellness" and "mindfulness" impacting consumer perceptions of tobacco in flavors and fragrances?
Wellness, mood enhancement, stress relief are the core of the tobacco notes. There was a time when people were not aware of the effect on health, but now wellness trends are at the forefront of all FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) industry portfolios.
Trends in wellness and mindfulness are reshaping the way people view and choose flavors and fragrances. Today’s buyers are more health-freaks and seek products that match well with their balanced and natural way of living. Consumers in today’s world are now looking out for products that not only have a good taste or smell but also, make them feel good. They are drawn to those sets of products that possess ingredients which are commonly perceived as clean, natural, and stress-reliever qualities.
How do you approach the challenge of modernizing traditional tobacco scents while preserving their heritage appeal?
Though every creative person will have their own ways of modernizing, while preserving heritage appeal of tobacco scents. I personally believe this can be achieved by following:
- Balance Tradition with Contemporary Trends: Modernizing tobacco notes with unexpected combinations Gourmand and Modern Sweetness like vanilla, caramel or cocoa, or spices such as a touch of pink pepper, ginger or cardamom with a modern flair, gives them an edge.
- Create Custom Tobacco Synthetics: Modern chemistry can produce tobacco-like notes using synthetics that mimic the richness of the original but with more control over aspects like longevity, intensity and texture. This can also help reduce reliance on natural tobacco, making the fragrance more sustainable.
What advice would you give to flavorists and perfumers looking to explore tobacco-inspired creations in their work?
My advice to fellow flavorists and perfumers looking to explore tobacco-inspired creations in their work will be brief yet bold:
- Understand the depth of tobacco's aroma and flavor profile
- Incorporate modern and unique notes for balance
- Don’t shy away from bold or unexpected ingredients
- Stay true to your unique vision
