Nootkatone: The Natural Key to Bright, Refreshing Citrus Creations

Bright, fresh and clean, citrus has been a staple flavour and scent used for millennia. And right now, it seems to be more popular than ever. From health-focused drinks to modern fragrance blends, the vibrant appeal of citrus, particularly grapefruit, is in high demand across the flavour and fragrance industry. But, delivering that fresh, juicy character isn’t always easy, especially when ingredient costs, sustainability and consistency come into play. Natara’s Nootkatone, however, presents brands and manufacturers with a smarter, more cost-effective and sustainable solution.

The Citrus Craze: Meeting Demand with Quality

While the appeal of citrus is timeless, we’re seeing that the global appetite for citrus-forward beverages is growing fast. By 2027, the healthy drinks market is projected to hit $158.2 billion, and consumers are increasingly reaching for products that are natural, refreshing, and full of flavour — and citrus tops the list. In fact, by 2026, the citrus beverage market alone is expected to reach $61.7 billion, continuing to grow steadily at 6.5% annually.

Nootkatone’s Potential & the Production Problem

To meet this growing demand, manufacturers are using lemon and orange, but also grapefruit, because of its craveable and distinct citrus aroma and taste. Nootkatone, which is the most valuable aroma compound of grapefruit, is also key to amplifying the authentic fruit juice experience, especially in beverages, flavored waters and health-focused drinks. It is also used for the unmistakably fresh and sophisticated note it adds to colognes and perfumes.

However, Nootkatone is notoriously difficult and expensive to extract from grapefruit itself. Traditional sourcing methods are resource-intensive and unpredictable, making it hard for brands to scale their offerings while maintaining quality and cost control. That means that today, innovative solutions are crucial for balancing cost, sustainability and accessibility in the beverage and fragrance industry. To stay competitive and deliver on consumer expectations, manufacturers and brands need a better, smarter way to access this prized ingredient.

Introducing Natara’s Nootkatone: Refreshing, Reliable, Sustainable

Natara’s 86% Nootkatone

Certification: US-Natural, Kosher
Odour traits: A nuanced, complex grapefruit aroma and flavoUr that closely mirrors the fruit in its natural form
Visual Description: LIQUID
Other characteristics: 86% purity, valencene-derived, vegan-friendly

Natara’s 98% Nootkatone
Certification: US-Natural, Kosher
Odour traits: Powerful citrus, grapefruit aroma with a woody top note
Visual Description: White crystalline solid
Other characteristics: 98% purity, valencene-derived, vegan-friendly

Natara’s high-purity Nootkatone offers a game-changing solution for brands looking to harness the power of grapefruit without the sourcing headaches. Derived sustainably through fermentation from valencene (extracted from Valencia oranges), this US-Natural Certified ingredient delivers consistent, high-quality results across a range of applications.

Available in 86% and 98% purity, Natara’s Nootkatone delivers two distinct, powerful grapefruit profiles — offering a bold, authentic citrus character that shines in beverages, especially health-conscious juices and flavoured waters. Its bright citrus aroma also elevates perfumes and colognes, while offering added utility as a natural insect repellent effective against ticks and mosquitoes.

For added flexibility, Natara’s Nootkatone can be paired with Natara’s Pamplemousse, replacing up to 10% of the formula to optimize cost — all while maintaining the same clean, juicy grapefruit profile.

Why Partner with Natara for Nootkatone

At Natara, we don’t just supply ingredients, we create solutions. Our Nootkatone is a perfect example of our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and sensory excellence. With decades of expertise in flavour and fragrance creation, Natara supports your citrus formulation needs with the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Our fermentation-based approach ensures a secure and consistent supply of high-purity Nootkatone, helping you stay ahead of market trends without compromising on performance or cost efficiency. So whether you’re developing refreshing citrus beverages, crafting bold new fragrances or exploring insect-repellent applications, Natara’s Nootkatone is a versatile, trusted choice from a team dedicated to helping you succeed.

Capture the Essence of Grapefruit with Natara

Ready to enhance your product range with the bright, natural power of grapefruit? Contact sales@natara-global.com today to learn more about Natara’s high-purity Nootkatone and request your sample.