A five-year research and development (R&D) project is set to produce flavors and fragrances from the Philippine forest.
The Forest Products Research and Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-FPRDI), through its Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP), will explore and utilize non-timber forest products (NTFPs) by conducting and producing R&D innovations, technologies and products, the DOST-FPRDI said in a news release.
Among the forest species to be studied in the P229.5-million project include the Philippine cinnamons, eucalyptus, Canarium species, select species from the families of Myrtaceae and Fabaceae, as well as some fruit trees and agroforestry crops that have potentials for flavors and fragrances.
“The institute is currently implementing projects that are expected to deliver healthcare and aromatherapy products, such as essential oils, salves, hand soaps [bar and liquid], spray mist, massage oils, foot deodorants, lotions and more,” the DOST-FPRDI said.
The institute has started developing teas, flavor-infused beverages and confectionaries using bamboo and cinnamon flavors.
Upgrading of the Institute’s R&D facility and capacitating researchers for flavors and fragrances will be prioritized in the next two years.
Also part of the program are studies on propagation techniques and protocols for proper harvesting of barks, leaves and other plant parts to ensure the sustainable supply of raw materials.
It also targets to develop sensory and chemical evaluation of NTFPs, and the socio-economic study, technology piloting and adoption.
The country’s forests are rich with natural resources, including commercially-important NTFPs, such as leaves, barks, resins, saps, essential oils and other plant materials.
The use of NTFPs either for food, medicine, flavors or essence have played a big part in the country’s history.
The use of different aromatic materials have evolved into a now renowned flavors and fragrances industry, which for decades has been one of the most promising and very profitable niche markets.
In 2018, the industry’s global market value was reported to amount to around $20 billion, and is projected to reach more than $30 billion by 2025.
The biggest contributors to flavors and fragrances market include Europe, Africa, Middle East, North America, Asia-Pacific and South America, while interesting emerging markets are in China, India, Russia and Central America.