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Is there a universal hierarchy of human senses?

A study conducted by researchers at the University of York found that cultures' emphasis on specific sensory experiences, such as music or pottery, affects their ability to communicate about different senses. This challenges the long-held assumption of a universal hierarchy of human senses.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2018

Don't sweat the sweet stuff

The study found that sweet and bitter tastes were quickly detected but took longer to be identified, while salty and sour tastes were vice versa. The researchers also discovered that participants' ratings of pleasantness influenced processing speed for sweet and bitter tastes.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateOct 15, 2018

Why leaf-eating Asian monkeys do not have a sweet tooth

A genetic study reveals that Asian colobine monkeys have a poor sense of taste, particularly in regards to natural sugars. This is attributed to their diet consisting mainly of leaves, which are easily digestible and fibre-rich, rather than energy-rich fruits containing simple sugars.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrimates·DateSep 6, 2018

Techniques for reducing sugar content in dairy products show promise

Researchers review options to reduce sugar in ice cream, yogurt, and flavored milk without sacrificing flavor, finding sweetener blends and sugar reduction techniques promising. Techniques like sorbitol and sucralose, erythritol, and lactitol show potential for reducing sugar content, improving taste and texture.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Dairy Science·DateAug 20, 2018

The origin of off-taste in onions

Scientists have discovered previously unknown sulfur compounds causing the bitter taste that develops after chopping onions. The compounds, dubbed allithiolanes, form spontaneously when the onion is damaged, affecting the flavor of resulting dishes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 15, 2018

What gives bees their sweet tooth?

Researchers at Newcastle University discovered that bees' taste neurons fire intense signals for up to 10 seconds when they encounter a sweet substance. This prolonged activation allows the bee to remain feeding at the same sugar source, making it more efficient for the colony.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 10, 2018

Maintaining canola oil quality

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new technique to analyze isomers in edible oil using HPLC-MS/MS, revealing the specific oxidation compounds in canola oil resulting from heat and light. The study suggests packaging canola oil in dark containers and adding antioxidants like carotenoids to reduce oxidation.

SourceTohoku University·Journalnpj Science of Food·DateJan 12, 2018

The sixth taste?

Researchers at UCSB have identified a unique class of gustatory receptor neurons necessary for calcium taste in fruit flies. They found that calcium is sensed as slightly bitter and sour, but its effects on human health are complex, with high levels associated with diseases.

Barley no longer an afterthought in beer flavor

Researchers at Oregon State University found notable differences in the taste of beers malted from two barley varieties, revealing novel flavors that carry through malting and brewing into beer. The study's results have significant implications for the brewing industry, particularly for beer connoisseurs.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Brewing Chemists·DateNov 27, 2017

Got a picky eater? How 'nature and nurture' may be influencing eating behavior in young children

Researchers found associations between genetic variations and limited dietary variety, struggles for control during mealtime, and bitter taste perception. This study aims to understand the interplay of nature and nurture in shaping picky eating behavior in early childhood.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics·DateOct 3, 2017

Sometimes you shouldn't say sorry

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology reveals that saying sorry when making a social rejection can have the opposite effect of its intention. Researchers found that apologizing can increase feelings of hurt and create pressure to forgive before being ready. The study's findings challenge popular beliefs about apologies in so...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 7, 2017

Why expensive wine appears to taste better

A study found that the brain's reward center is tricked into thinking expensive wine tastes better due to its higher price. The 'marketing placebo effect' plays a role in this phenomenon, where identical products are perceived differently based on their prices.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 14, 2017

A taste cell encyclopedia

A new study from the Monell Center enables researchers to pinpoint the unique molecular components needed for each type of taste cell to function. This breakthrough provides a treasure trove of information on how taste cells respond to different compounds and can help devise ways to promote healthy eating.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

Anyone for crispy jellyfish?

A new method for drying jellyfish has been developed to make them crunchy and paper-thin, reducing processing time from 30-40 days to just a few days. This innovation also increases the efficiency of Asian processing plants.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalInternational Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science·DateJul 27, 2017

Now or later: How taste and sound affect when you buy

New research finds that advertisements highlighting more proximal sensory experiences (touch/taste) lead to earlier purchases, while those emphasizing distal sensory experiences (sight/sound) delay them. This study, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, suggests new ways for marketers to differentiate their products and services.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 28, 2017

Sour taste cells detect water

Researchers at Caltech have discovered that sour-sensing taste cells play a crucial role in detecting water on the tongue. The study found that these cells are responsible for sensing water through a pathway also used for basic tastes, such as salt and sugar. This finding challenges current understanding of how mammals detect water.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 1, 2017

Minitablets help medicate picky cats

Researchers developed minitablets with synthetic flavourings and coatings to enhance palatability, making it easier for cats to take medication. The study found that amino acids and vitamin B-based flavours were promising options, but further research is needed.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateMar 22, 2017