Tag: Fat perception

For over 99% of human history, fat was a highly prized but scarce resource, offering more than double the caloric energy of protein or carbohydrates per gram. This deep evolutionary craving is a primary reason why do people like the taste of fat, a preference rooted in survival that still influences our diets today.

In 2015, researchers at Purdue University named the distinct taste sensation of fatty acids 'oleogustus,' formally identifying fat as a potential sixth basic taste, alongside sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. This groundbreaking discovery fundamentally changed our understanding of the true flavour of fat, which is far more complex than just its texture.