How do scientists engineer bacteria to make new things, like flavours and fragrances? And how do smells and tastes figure in our everyday lives? Is it important if menthol no longer comes from mint plants but from bacteria instead? I spent 2 days with Dr Andrew Balmer, a researcher from the University of Manchester, recording aspects of the project, including a trip to a laboratory and a day of field research.
: Visit to a lab where they are attempting to synthesise menthol, as well as other flavours & smells, such as citrus. E-coli can be adapted and made to excrete all manner of substances, from menthol through to rocket fuel.
Researching people’s opinions about menthol products, about how they would feel using products made from E-Coli, and opinions on the wider impact of replacing farmed mint with synthesised menthol.