Sensory Evaluation of Sidestream Odor using Transfer Testing Methodology

Cigarettes with closely matched physical characteristics were subjected to static burns inside a modified bell-jar apparatus in order to investigate the effects of variations in cigarette construction and composition on the odor of sidestream smoke. Cambridge filter pads moistened with mineral oil and suspended inside the bell-jars were highly effective transfer materials which captured the sidestream smoke odors. Triangle-test odor evaluations of the exposed Cambridge pads established significant differences at the 95 % confidence level between sidestream odors from cigarettes made with 100 % Burley, flue-cured, or Oriental tabacco. Differences were also found between sidestream odors from tobacco grades within a single tobacco type and between equal blends of two tobacco types. Consistent with studies of sidestream menthol delivery and menthol levels needed to detect a just noticeable difference, no significant sidestream odor differences were found between menthol and non-menthol versions of the same cigarette.