BASF Elevates Mint Innovation in Flavor and Fragrance Industry with Sustainable L-Menthol Solutions

BASF is redefining the flavor and fragrance (F&F) industry with its advanced mint portfolio, centered around its high-purity, industrially synthesized L-Menthol FCC. Renowned for its refreshing aroma and cooling effect, L-menthol is a key ingredient in oral care and confectionery applications, delivering a sensory experience synonymous with cleanliness and freshness. BASF's L-Menthol FCC, synthesized from citral via a proprietary process, has been shown through sensory studies to closely replicate the profile of natural L-menthol, making it a sustainable and effective alternative in flavor formulations.

BASF further sets industry benchmarks with its Aroma PCF Scale, classifying L-Menthol FCC in the best-in-class PCF category (Class A), and offering reduced-footprint variants such as L-Menthol FCC rPCF and BMBcert, lowering carbon emissions by at least 10% and 40%, respectively. Complementing this core ingredient, BASF's mint portfolio includes L-Isopulegol FG, L-Menthone 70 FG, L-Menthyl Acetate FCC, and DL-Menthol FG, each contributing unique sensory and compositional benefits to mint profiles. These components not only harmonize with L-Menthol FCC but can also be used independently to craft nuanced flavor and fragrance compositions across a wide spectrum—from fresh and herbal to fruity, floral, and woody blends.

Additionally, fermentation-derived ingredients like Isobionics® Natural Germacrene D 85 and Natural beta-Caryophyllene 80 enrich mint profiles with enhanced mouthfeel and spicy-woody notes. BASF’s integrated mint toolbox empowers formulators to innovate and create compelling, sustainable flavor and fragrance solutions that align with evolving consumer expectations and environmental standards.

Source: BASF