Symrise celebrates 50 years of synthetic menthol invention

German personal care ingredient manufacturer Symrise is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its creation of synthetic menthol.

In 1974, Symrise achieved an industry-shaping milestone: It managed to synthetically manufacture l Menthol for the first time, making the company the world’s leading producer of this compound.

Synthetic l-Menthol has since become a true all-rounder, ubiquitous in many products such as toothpaste, chewing gum, shower gel, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Fifty years on, in an era where sustainability has become as crucial as innovation, the production of synthetic l-Menthol continues to stand out as a beacon of progress.

Symrise operates two production sites in Holzminden, Germany, and Bushy Park, USA.

It has expanded the respective production capacities several times since 1974, with the latest expansion in Bushy Park occurring in 2022.

Both sites utilize a state-of-the-art, highly automated, continuously operated, and closed manufacturing process.

This method underscores Symrise’s commitment to environmental stewardship, efficiency, and green chemistry.

Following this dedicated approach, has refined their manufacturing processes. It has made them some of the most sustainable and efficient methods in the industry.

Also, Symrise has established a supply chain for a stable, high-quality output all year round, in any weather condition.

With the high-yield process that minimizes energy and water use, Symrise achieves nearly zero waste.

These decades of expertise have enabled Symrise to engineer an extensive and innovative portfolio of menthols and Symcool products, designed to elevate sensory experiences across various applications.

They include confectionery and oral care to cosmetics and the Symcool range; odourless and flavourless agents that enhance freshness and amplifies flavours like cinnamon and citrus.

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