The Family of Aroma Molecules

1. They are small and light in weight (a molecular weight of less than 300 daltons). Lighter molecules travel faster through air.
2. They are volatile at room temperature, so they can travel through air to the nose.
3. They can talk with odor receptors.

Aroma molecules have a good side and bad side. The same aroma molecule that creates the signature scent of one food can be responsible for an odor considered unpleasant in a different food. Often the signature scent of an ingredient relies on the presence of one aromatic molecule; these are called key odorants.