Abstract
Body odor sampling is an essential tool in human chemical ecology research. Methodologies of individual studies vary widely in terms of sampling material, length of sampling, and sample processing.
Here, we focused on the effect of freezing samples between collection and use in experiments involving body odor perception. In 2 experiments, we tested whether axillary odors were perceived differently by raters when presented fresh or having been frozen and whether several freeze–thaw cycles affected sample quality.
In the first experiment, samples were frozen for 2 weeks, 1 month, or 4 months. We found no differences in ratings of pleasantness, attractiveness, or masculinity between fresh and frozen samples.
Similarly, almost no differences between repeatedly thawed and fresh samples were found. We found some variations in intensity; however, this was unrelated to length of storage.
The second experiment tested differences between fresh samples and those frozen for 6 months. No differences were observed.