Symrise Develops a New Generation of Molecularly Distilled Citrus Oils

Symrise introduces a new generation of molecularly distilled citrus oils. The oils, which are part of the company’s NATURALLY CITRUS!brand, have been significantly improved in terms of flavor intensity and authenticity.

27 Apr 2010 --- Symrise, the world’s fourth largest manufacturer of fragrances and flavorings, is expanding and improving its portfolio of fresh-fruity citrus flavorings: effective immediately, the company will be offering a new generation of molecularly distilled citrus oils (MD oils). MD oils are manufactured at low temperatures with short contact times through the use of short path, high vacuum distillation technologies. This gentle distillation method guarantees a high quality, wax-free, state-of-the-art product with reduced terpene content.

The superior flavor impact, authenticity and solubility of the new generation of MD oils make them ideal for clear beverages. They are also a perfect fit for citrus applications requiring fresh, authentic taste signatures. MD oils from Symrise are available in lime, lemon, mandarin, tangerine and grapefruit flavors.

“Offering this new generation of MD oils to our creative community and to the market represents another facet of our ongoing efforts to build and expand our NATURALLY CITRUS! brand in the market place – after all, the benefits of these products are perfectly in line with brand’s core values of TRUE TO NATURE (Symrise creates citrus flavors right at the source using unique technologies) and TRUE TO LIFE (ensuring that the freshness and taste stay intact for products with improved stability),” says Erlon Pereira, Global Director for Citrus Business Development Flavor & Nutrition, referring to the latest member of the NATURALLY CITRUS! family. “These oils are the perfect foundation for fresh-tasting products – products that we can offer our clients to accommodate regional and global tastes.”

The improvement in the oils stems from a development in the manufacturing process: limiting exposure to high temperatures avoids burned and oxidized notes and allows the flavor of freshly peeled citrus fruits to fully develop.

The molecular distillation process completely removes terpenes and bitter residues from the oils, which significantly enhances the stability of the oils while guaranteeing an authentic taste.

The improved process for extracting MD oils came about through a joint effort by the global Symrise team: the Global Citrus Center in Sorocaba, Brazil, Symrise chemists in the United States and the Innovation team in Holzminden all had a hand in developing the oils.