Checking in, and some perfume industry links
I’m sorry I’ve been scarce lately. I’ve been busy getting ready for next week’s event at Jessup Cellars in Napa as well as keeping up with orders. The photo above shows the making of carded sample sets for the Jessup event (before sorting into sets of five).
I’ve seen a few interesting reads in the perfume world lately and wanted to post links for those who may have missed them. First, The Washington Post ran an article about a study into how genetics determines our perception of smells. We’ve discussed this topic here on the blog a number of times because I find it fascinating.
Also, a link to a video discussing the state of affairs in the EU with more upcoming restrictions on allergenic ingredients. It says, “European negotiations are ongoing. An initial proposal restricting coumarin and twelve other allergenic substances to 0.01 per cent of a product looks like it has been dropped. This would signal a partial success for the perfume lobby. However, it looks like at least three ingredients will definitely be banned.” And, “It’s a breathtaking battle between well-organized business lobbies and patient groups, between scientific researchers and political powers. The new law will be on the table next year: will it signal the end of Europe’s perfume-makers? Only time will tell.” I wonder how all of this will eventually play out.
That is an absolutely fascinating article from the Washington Post. I think that even if you have a genetic disposition for or against certain scents or flavors, you can overcome them and even grow to love them. For example, cilantro is very soapy to me and my mother, but we couldn’t imagine guacamole, salsa, or Szechuan spicy lamb without it. That being said, I feel that describing scents often depends on personal experience — so I’m not surprised people express their perceptions differently. The biological aspect is fascinating, isn’t it? Thanks so much for the links!
I enjoyed that Post article too! And it does apply to flavor as well. I’ve heard varying opinions on cilantro too! 🙂
Here’s a previous post on this subject, with a link to a video on NST and other posts on my blog, in case any of those look interesting.
http://sonomascent.wordpress.com/2011/09/28/more-discussion-about-individual-scent-perception/
Checking it out now! Thanks, Laurie!
That must’ve been a lot of work to prepare all these samples Laurie!
I’m leaving on my family vacation tomorrow so you take care and have fun at the event
Thanks, Lucas! Hope you have a great vacation!
Looks wonderful, Laurie!
Thanks, Ida!