Masking agents are substances used to hide or neutralize the effects of other chemicals, often in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food production, and environmental science. They can help to obscure unwanted odors, tastes, or colors, making products more appealing or acceptable to consumers. In the context of drug testing, masking agents are sometimes used to conceal the presence of drugs in a person's system. These agents can interfere with the detection methods used in tests, potentially leading to false negatives. However, the use of masking agents raises ethical concerns and can result in serious consequences if discovered.