The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) opened its Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP) Laboratory to visitors last November 26 in connection with the National Biotechnology Week (NBW) celebration from 25-29 November 2024.
The visitors explored the innovative processes behind F3TP, and got a behind-the-scene look at the research and development on food and fragrance products. They were also treated to Bari Tea and wine tasting, and an immersive experience of eco-friendly scents created from forest-based materials.
Among the projects and products highlighted during the interactive tour were:
- Pinoy Barrel Project that involves in-depth research into the potential of using local indigenous woods as material for barrels. The project has studied wood suitability, new flavor profiles, and efficient techniques in making the wooden barrels.
- Green Fragrance with Purpose Project that aims to develop fragrances from selected aromatic plant species using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE)—an environment-friendly process that guarantees higher and better recovery rate, and faster extraction time than common methods of oil extraction. It also targets to widen the raw materials base by studying different Philippine aromatic plants, and formulating fragrance products from the extracted essential oils.
- Insect Repellent Incense from Spent Barks and Resins that offers a unique combination of natural ingredients, sustainable practices, and effectiveness in driving away insects while being environment-friendly.
- Bari Tea which is sourced from the agarwood tree known for its medicinal properties. Bari Tea is distinct from traditional teas due to its exceptional blend of health benefits and unique flavor profile. DOST-FPRDI has developed a standard process to produce tea (branded as Bari Tea) from agarwood leaves.
“The activity gave a peek on how F3TP explores various applications of unutilized forest products to create sustainable solutions for food, medicine, and fragrance industries. It also emphasized the program’s role in supporting economic growth while promoting environmental sustainability,” said DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon.
With the theme “#experienceBiotech: Expand the Future of Biotechnology through Education, Innovation, and Commercialization,” the NBW highlights the important role of biotechnology in shaping the future across various industries.
Through its participation in NBW, DOST-FPRDI strengthens its commitment to advancing biotechnology in the Philippines, paving the way for innovative applications in education, innovation, and commercialization that benefit communities and industries. ### (Cherrie Mae Martinez, 26 November 2024)
