According to recent studies, the African elephant is the species that can detect the largest number of scents, boasting nearly 2,000 olfactory-related genes, a far cry from the almost 390 found in humans. Despite this stark contrast, it is estimated that a normal person can identify up to one trillion scents in the environment.

Olfactory stimulants are linked to basic instincts such as survival, reproduction, personal hygiene and self-defense and each smell is imprinted on our memory.

Cognizant of the powerful effect aromas have on consumers, the fragrance industry is constantly developing countless fragrances for applications not limited to fine perfumes, like personal care and household uses, among others.

Behind each of these fragrances is a team of experts or “noses” that combine different raw materials to diligently create the best formula for a given purpose. There are numerous examples around us, including shampoos, soaps, lotions, disposable tissues, toilet paper, toys, mattresses, candles, wall paints, trash bags, polyethylene soles for children’s footwear, products for pets and even specific scents for retail store interiors.

“It is important to be aware that we are always surrounded by scents—our own, from other people, from food in a restaurant, from the inside of a house. Even cities have smells. In contrast with other senses like hearing and sight, where we are taught music and art appreciation, there is a considerable lack of awareness of the olfactory world,” explains Magdalena Fuenzalida, Head of Fragrance Marketing at CRAMER.

She highlights the job of perfumers, who are true artists responsible for designing a certain aroma based on global market trends and specific customer requirements.

The objective of these scented products is to contribute value and enhance quality of life each day through notes that emulate nature, in sync with the environment, or with original, fantasy formulations.