The significance of low impact odorants in global odour perception

Low impact odorants are generally considered unimportant in aroma perception; however, recent evidence establishes the significance of these compounds in global odour perception. We hypothesise that the perception of high impact odorants is modified by sub- and peri-threshold odorants, even those with low odour activity. In order to fully evaluate the importance of low impact odorants, and better understand the complexities of global odour perception, a new multidisciplinary approach is needed incorporating chemical, sensory and neurological model studies.