ScentSational Technologies has played up the findings, which have been published in the Australian Journal of Dairy Technology, suggesting that they may encourage some food and drink manufacturers to look at aromatic packaging as adding value to their goods.
However, Netherlands-based NIZO, which conducted the testing suggests that although the research links aroma in food products to potential satiety benefits, the findings had not been extended specifically to scented packaging. The group therefore urged caution to any possible link between pack aromas and weight control, saying it did not have research to either support or disprove such claims.
Weight management has become a huge area of interest for food manufacturers with companies looking for any potential solutions to boost satiety amidst growing scrutiny of the use of health claims in markets like the EU.
Appetite and smell
To look at whether the use of smell may have applications in controlling appetite, NIZO food research says it looked at two examples of how aromas may possibly induce satiety through fermented dairy products.
Head researcher Rianne Ruijschop and her team looked at both the use of organic acids derived through fermentation and altering the extent of retro-nasal aroma release as part of the study.
"In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over full factorial design, it was shown that perceived satiation can be increased by altering the extent of aroma release during consumption of a liquid dairy product," the researchers state.
The study suggests that physical structure in food products is an important contributor to retro-nasal aroma release, as solid foods tend to generate the stimulus for a longer time than liquid products.
Using a process known as olfactometry, traditionally used to test and measure the sensitivity of sense of smell, the researchers claimed that aroma stimuli could be administered separately from other factors like ingredients, texture and taste.
Pack possibilities
ScentSaitonal claims that products such as its CompelAroma technology, which can be used in various packaging formats like microwavable trays to films and flexible pouches, could provide certain aromas to help promote satiation.
The manufacturer says that its technology makes use of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved food grade flavours that can be added to packaging.
“Food and beverages utilizing CompelAroma technology generate amplified retro-nasal olfaction, resulting in improved taste and satiation,” claimed the group.