EAST HANOVER, NJ — Pure, odorless air is so important in Givaudan’s new flavor laboratory here in East Hanover that sensory evaluators are prohibited from using cologne, deodorant, and scented soap. The HVAC system, which introduces 100% outside air, must also eliminate all odors and particulates, as well as dehumidify in the summer and humidify in the winter.

Givaudan recently built a $1.5 million two-story, 5,000-square-foot addition to its plant, which is one of dozens of plants the 106-year-old Switzerland-based flavor and fragrance manufacturer owns worldwide on six continents.