Flavored and infused smokable papers are in high demand but producing them takes a real understanding of how flavor behaves on different substrates and within various production methods. For paper manufacturers like Botani, that means finding a flavor partner who understands both the science and the nuance behind what makes a product perform.
Emerald Green Technology (EGT) fills that gap. A cannabis-focused division of Tobacco Technology Inc. (TTI), EGT develops custom flavor formulations specifically for smokable applications. The company works closely with Botani to bring infused papers to market. We spoke to JC Senatore, head of business development for EGT about how the partnership works—and what goes into making flavored paper that actually delivers.
A Partnership for Decades
Botani’s collaboration with EGT evolved from a longstanding relationship between TTI and SWM, Botani’s parent company. Initially, TTI supplied flavors for SWM’s tobacco paper business. When SWM began developing hemp-based substrates, and TTI had established its cannabinoid division Emerald Green Technology (EGT), JC took over the account. That work eventually led to more direct collaboration with Botani.
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How the Collaboration Works
Every project with Botani starts the same way: by understanding how the client plans to use the product. “We need to know what the end goal is going to be,” JC says. “That helps us tailor the flavor to work with their production process and the paper substrate itself.”
From there, Emerald Green doesn’t just send samples—they create lab-scale flavored paper using Botani’s material. “It gives the client something they can smoke or put straight into their process. It shortens the feedback loop and gives everyone a clearer path forward.”
Customizing Flavor to Fit the Paper
Not all papers behave the same way, which is why EGT customizes its flavor approach depending on the substrate. Botani’s hemp-based paper tends to pair well with terpene blends, especially those that mimic specific cannabis strains. “We can retrofit terpene profiles using botanical sources to reflect what the client is looking for,” JC explains.
Botani’s tea-based sheet has a more traditional look and feel. “That one leans more toward classic cigar-style flavors like Russian Cream, Irish Cream, or Sweet Aromatic.”
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What’s the latest flavor in flavor? Brands are asking for layered, unexpected combinations. “Fusion flavors have become really popular,” JC says. “People don’t just want mango—they want mango and pineapple, and they want to call it Tropical.”
That kind of creative input allows EGT to build profiles that stand out while staying functional on paper. “There are a lot of smokable papers out there. This kind of flavor work helps Botani clients differentiate their products in the market.”
Safe, Tested, and Ready to Burn
All EGT flavors go through internal quality control testing before they ever reach a client. Even though they don’t contain active ingredients like THC, CBD, or nicotine—which means third-party testing isn’t required—they are still developed to meet strict standards.
“Our flavors are FEMA GRAS certified and specifically built for combustion,” JC says. “We’re not pulling from food or beverage flavor libraries. We’re building profiles that are meant to burn and perform well on paper.” Each order includes safety data sheets and spec documentation so that clients know exactly what they’re working with.
Why Some Flavors Are Harder to Nail Down
Even familiar profiles like Russian Cream come with their own set of challenges. “Some clients want it sweet and creamy. Others want more bold coffee notes,” JC says. “Everyone has their own take.”
That’s where experience matters. With decades of cigar-style flavor development behind them, Emerald Green’s team knows how to fine-tune each note without losing the performance needed for combustion. As JC puts it, “We’re a flavor house where art and science meet—that’s how we help clients bring their vision to life without compromising how the product performs.”