Organoleptic Evaluation of Three Phenols Present in Wood Smoke

Abstract

SUMMARY Guaiacol, 4‐methyl guaiacol, and 2,6‐di–methoxyphenol, components of wood smoke condensates, were evaluated organoleptically. Mean panel thresholds of the taste and odor in water and the odor in mineral oil were determined for each compound. The majority of the panel characterized the compounds as being smoky in odor and taste, although phecolic characteristics were also present. The relative effectiveness of each compound in the over–all flavor picture was shown by the ratio (concentration in smoke/threshold concentration). Guaiaeol had the largest index, whereas 2,6–dimethoxyphenol, which was present in smoke condensate in greatest concentration, had a considerably lower value. Mixing the three compounds in the approximate concentrations found in the smoke condensate did not give the desirable characteristic aroma. Trace components must also be considered for their effect in the over–all flavor pattern.