GC–MS and GC–olfactometry analysis of aroma compounds in a representative organic aroma extract from cured vanilla ( Vanilla planifolia G. Jackson) beans

Abstract

Volatile compounds from cured vanilla beans were extracted using organic solvents. Sensory analysis showed that the aromatic extract obtained with a pentane/ether (1/1 v/v) solvent mixture provided the extract most representative of vanilla bean flavour. Sixty-five volatiles were identified in a pentane/ether extract by GC–MS analysis. Aromatic acids, aliphatic acids and phenolic compounds were the major volatiles. By GC–O analysis of the pentane/ether extract, 26 odour-active compounds were detected. The compounds guaiacol, 4-methylguaiacol, acetovanillone and vanillyl alcohol, found at much lower concentrations in vanilla beans than vanillin, proved to be as intense as vanillin.