The carbon module labeling (CAMOLA) technique: A useful tool for identifying transient intermediates in the formation of Maillard-type target molecules

Although the Maillard reaction is a well-known source of aroma and taste compounds in processed foods, a systematic correlation of the concentrations of most of the reaction products identified so far with human perception has scarcely been performed. Furthermore, the influence of process parameters on yields and formation mechanisms of key flavor compounds has not been systematically studied. In this short state-of-the-art review, concepts to characterize flavor-active food constituents are briefly discussed, and approaches to elucidate formation mechanisms from labeling experiments and isotopomeric quantitation are highlighted on the basis of results obtained in the author's laboratory.