Odor measurement in Japan

The triangle odor bag method, the most popular olfactory sensory test in Japan, was first developed in 1972, and introduced into the Offensive Odor Control Law in 1995. This is an air dilution method in which “odor index” is measured. In recent years, the necessity of developing quality control system for olfactometry and standardization of measurement procedure for the promotion of nationwide spread of olfactometry has been recognized. This paper presents about the measurement procedure of the triangle odor bag method, establishment of quality control framework for olfactometry, including selection of a reference odor, development of reference odor preparation technique, interlaboratory comparison of olfactometry, and key elements of quality control manual. Nationwide comparison of olfactometry in 2002 and 2003 is also discussed.