👉 Cookies, particularly those containing small amounts of flour, sugar, and other ingredients, can produce what are colloquially known as "cookie fumes" when they're baked or heated. These fumes are primarily composed of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acetaldehyde, which has a distinctive, sweet-smelling odor often described as fruity or floral but can also be pungent and unpleasant. The phenomenon occurs because the heat causes these ingredients to evaporate, releasing their aromatic compounds into the air. While generally not harmful in small quantities, excessive exposure to cookie fumes can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, making them a common nuisance in kitchens or areas where baked goods are frequently prepared.
