TUSTIN, Calif. — Abstrax, in collaboration with leading extraction and analytical experts at 710 Labs, SepSolve Analytical and Markes International, has uncovered a plethora of new exotic flavor and aroma compounds in cannabis that have rarely – if ever – been observed, leading to a new understanding of what drives cannabis’ most compelling aromas and the entourage effect. The study, published in ACS Omega, was selected as an ACS Editor’s Choice publication, highlighting the importance and broad interest of this work.
“We found clear correlations between key minor compounds never before seen in cannabis that produce some of the most desireable aromas,” said TJ Martin, Vice President of Research and Development at Abstrax. ”After analysis by our sensory panel, in tandem with our analytical data, it became evident that terpenes, while essential in producing many of the typical aromas in cannabis, do not necessarily differentiate many varieties with distinct scents.”
The research began with a human sensory panel that assessed the aroma of over 30 different ice hash rosin samples. The results revealed pronounced differences between varieties, with some described as “sweet or fruity” and others as “savory or chemical.”
The wide diversity of aromas provided researchers with a broad spectrum of legal cannabis product samples to analyze. Next, 2-dimensional gas chromatography, a sophisticated technique offering higher resolution and fidelity than traditional chemical analysis methods, enabled the detection of hidden compounds in small concentrations that can have a significant odor impact. This proved crucial when the team discovered that terpenes had minimal correlation with the highly sought after attributes of many exotic cannabis varieties, suggesting an alternative class of compounds could be the key.
The study identified many key aroma classes with diverse functionality, each responsible for some of the most desirable aromatic qualities found in high quality modern cannabis. Abstrax scientists highlight two classes, including tropical Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) and the heterocyclic compounds Indole and Skatole. The former produce highly desired exotic citrus and tropical notes in certain varieties such as Tangie or Tropicana Cookies, while the latter provide a rich, intense, chemical scent in GMO, 710 Chem, and other savory varieties.
Citrus is currently a very important trend in flavor science, with many brands working to engineer citrus alternatives. With the discovery of the compounds responsible for the iconic Tangie flavor and aroma, known as “tropicannasulfurs,” other industries can leverage these unique compounds to create extremely unique and desirable citrus aromas.
Furthermore, a broad variety of flavorants in cannabis including esters, alcohols, ketones, and more that contribute to the berry, tropical, candy, fruity, strawberry, pineapple, and other sweet notes were identified. These flavorants play a major role in exotic varieties like Apple Fritter, Zkittlez, Gelato, and Runtz. While found in small amounts, these compounds combine to create many of the diverse sweet or fruity notes in modern cannabis.
“The discovery of these compounds will play a crucial role in validating cannabis’ authenticity and accurately classifying cannabis varieties in the future. It also enables Abstrax to create the most flavorful and authentic cannabis flavors utilizing these previously undiscovered cannabis compounds,” says Max Koby, CEO and Co-Founder of Abstrax. “This research is important for consumers, researchers, brands, cultivators, labs, regulators, and everyone in between.”
For example, Gorilla Glue, which typically has a pungent, gassy, almost chemical scent, was described as tropical and citrus by the sensory panel. Chemical data validated the sensory results, showing high concentrations of tropical VSCs (tropicannasulfurs), suggesting that the product was mislabeled. These compounds offer a means to correctly classify varieties and ensure product quality and authenticity.
Co-author Brad Melshenker, Co-CEO of 710 Labs, expressed, “Abstrax and 710 Labs share the same lifelong passion: studying this incredibly complex plant. This research helps us better understand flavor in the cannabis experience, allowing us to better educate our customers and select phenos for our genetic library.”
These findings are especially important for:
- Consumers to best identify and understand the products they love.
- Cultivators/breeders to hone in on creating unique genetics and highly consistent products.
- Packaging experts to better innovate for specific compounds to increase product shelf life.
- Regulators to fully understand which components of a cannabis plant are driving sweet, fruity, and savory flavors and aromas.
Beyond gaining a better understanding of the aromatic qualities of cannabis, the authors hope that other functional applications may follow.
“Cannabis is used medically for many health ailments, but there are so many questions remaining as to how it works and if we can enhance those properties by creating new varieties with specific chemistries, ” said Iain Oswald, PhD, Abstrax Principal Research Scientist. “We hope our work will open new avenues of research for others to better understand this unique plant and harness its full therapeutic potential.”
For instance, indole and skatole, two of the key savory and chemical aroma compounds discovered in the study, contain similar chemical structures to 3-3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM), which is a weak CB1 and CB2 receptor agonist that has shown fascinating antiproliferative properties in certain cancer cell lines. Now researchers can investigate if either indole or skatole may contribute similar functionality to cannabis.
“This new chemistry will open the doors for exciting new avenues of research and classification schemes that are grounded in the very thing that makes so many cannabis varieties unique – their aroma,” says Kevin Koby, Chief Science Officer of Abstrax. “While this research may answer many questions, it opens just as many new possibilities for this incredible plant.”
The study is soon to result in the publication of four key white papers to help simplify these results for a general audience: (1) exploring exotic flavor compounds, (2) Tangies’ unique tropical VSC, (3) a deep dive unveiling GMO, and (4) an exploration on the sugar and sweet compounds in cannabis.
As we stand at the dawn of a new era in cannabis understanding, Abstrax remains committed to pioneering discoveries that elevate the industry and enrich the consumer experience. This groundbreaking research not only answers pressing questions but also ignites a renewed passion and curiosity for what’s next. With every revelation, we’re one step closer to fully unlocking the vast potential and mysteries of this remarkable plant. As we venture into these new horizons, Abstrax invites everyone to join in celebrating and exploring the profound intricacies and wonders of cannabis.
For additional information, please visit: pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.3c04496
About Abstrax: Where Innovation and Science Meets Flavor Mastery
Abstrax, the pioneer in botanical flavor technology, delivers terpene-driven flavor solutions. Catering to the cannabis, hops, flavor and fragrance sectors, it’s the go-to for CPG brands seeking differentiation. Founded in California by renowned scientists and visionaries, Abstrax employs cutting-edge technology and sustainable ingredients across three divisions. Abstrax Tech leads in research, discovering new flavor compounds and crafting terpene blends for diverse markets, including unique cannabis flavors. Abstrax Labs offers cutting-edge extraction and analytical technologies through its proprietary Terplytics™ system. It delivers the most advanced botanical testing for exploratory research, sensory quantification, strain validation, product development, and consumer insights. Abstrax Hops provides the most advanced research, products, and services that push the limits of brewing innovation. Its wide range of solutions encapsulates the authentic varietal specific Hop Flavors, Dank Flavors, and next generation of advanced hop products including natural hop aroma extracts. Abstrax offers the utmost in safety, quality and regulatory adherence, ensuring seamless integration into product lines. Delve deeper with Abstrax at AbstraxTech.com, AbstraxHops.com and AbstraxLabs.com.
