RIFM scientist to share how fragrance botanicals are kept safe
9.24.25
From the lavender in your favorite lotion to the citrus notes in your shampoo, natural botanicals are everywhere in the products we use every day. But how do we ensure they’re safe?
On October 22, 2025, at the American Society for Cellular and Computational Toxicology (ASCCT) Annual Meeting, RIFM Principal Scientist Gretchen Ritacco, MS, will present on how the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) evaluates the safety of natural complex substances (NCS) used in fragrance. Her talk, “Evaluation of Natural Complex Substances for Safety – The RIFM Approach,” will be part of the session “Leaf it to the NAMs: Untangling Safety of Botanicals” (4–6 pm).
Ritacco will explain how RIFM’s scientists use new approach methodologies (NAMs), including exposure modeling, read-across comparisons, and in vitro testing, to ensure that fragrance botanicals are both enjoyable and safe. These advanced tools not only give a clearer picture of real-world use but also help reduce the need for animal testing. (RIFM does not conduct animal testing for any of its human health endpoints.)
“I am excited to present RIFM’s approach for evaluating the safety of fragrance NCS,” said Ritacco. “For this session, I will be focusing on the new approach methodologies we use, from considering exposure to read-across to in vitro testing.”
With more than 900 botanicals on RIFM’s fragrance ingredient inventory, Ritacco’s presentation will show how RIFM’s process supports the safe use of natural scents in everyday products, helping people enjoy the fragrances they love with confidence.