Minh Nguyen [MN]: Having obtained a degree in chemistry, specifically in synthetic chemistry, I find interest in creating new things. I ran into the flavor apprentice position while searching for a job after graduation that related to chemistry. I was very curious and excited at the time of the interview for the position because flavorist was a relatively new profession to me at the time. I was very interested in the position after learning about this profession throughout the interview. I thought it was a good career pathway where I could use the knowledge I have in chemistry, as well as the creativity that I could apply in this field. Inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm from my mentors after being a flavor apprentice, I realized becoming a successful flavor chemist was not only a career, but also a passion that I wanted to achieve even though it would be long hard journey.
Minh Nguyen [MN]: Having obtained a degree in chemistry, specifically in synthetic chemistry, I find interest in creating new things. I ran into the flavor apprentice position while searching for a job after graduation that related to chemistry. I was very curious and excited at the time of the interview for the position because flavorist was a relatively new profession to me at the time. I was very interested in the position after learning about this profession throughout the interview. I thought it was a good career pathway where I could use the knowledge I have in chemistry, as well as the creativity that I could apply in this field. Inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm from my mentors after being a flavor apprentice, I realized becoming a successful flavor chemist was not only a career, but also a passion that I wanted to achieve even though it would be long hard journey.
P&F+: What applications do you primarily formulate for? Do you have a favorite?
MN: Powder applications (nutraceutical supplemental work out drinks), beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and a little bit of savory (spice). As for a favorite, I like to create flavor for both powder and beverage applications because they both have unique properties that deliver the flavor differently, thus, they challenge the flavorist to figure out a way to utilize these properties for the best effect.
For the full article, please check out the Perfumer & Flavorist+ October 2022 issue.
