ABSTRACT

Requirements of governmental bodies in the use of natural products increased tremendously in the last years. Not only the directions by the flavor regulation but also the demand of the consumer organizations presses the industry and producers to supply solely natural products, often desired in “bio” quality. The green responsibility for natural products brought synthetic aroma chemicals in a poor light. Regarding the mass market for cosmetic products, genuineness in fragrances is very limited because of the sources of raw material. On the other side, prices for raw materials increase since years for natural flavor and fragrance ingredients. The acceptance of fragrance compounds containing essential oils and natural aroma chemicals is a way to fulfill the consumer demand for safe, effective, and too affordable finished products. But even today with that claims and in spite of fabulous analytical equipment and highly sophisticated methods, many adulterated essential oils are found on the market. The question arises, what are the motivations for such a serious condition? This and above all, the manner of adulteration and the matching analysis methods shall be treated within this chapter.