Understanding Taste and Genetics

Which of the following is NOT one of the five basic tastes?

• Sour

• Sweet

• Umami

• Spicy

How can early childhood experiences affect taste perception?

• They only influence taste perception in adulthood.

• They can shape whether we perceive certain tastes as good or bad.

• They have no effect on taste perception.

• They only affect taste perception temporarily.

What chemical is responsible for the sensation of spiciness in food?

• Gluten

• Lactase

• Serotonin

• Capsaicin

What percentage of variation in the enjoyment of spicy food is attributed to genetic factors according to a 2012 study?

• 60% to 80%

• 10% to 30%

• 18% to 58%

• 50% to 70%

What gene is associated with the perception of cilantro as soapy?

• T2R38

• PTC

• O6A2

• T1R2

Which population has the highest prevalence of lactose intolerance?

• African-American

• Scandinavian

• East Asian

• Caucasian

What triggers the immune system reaction in celiac disease?

• Lactose

• Capsaicin

• PTC

• Gluten

What is the PTC gene primarily associated with?

• Spiciness perception

• Sourness perception

• Bitterness perception

• Sweetness perception

What percentage of the general population are considered super tasters?

• 10%

• 25%

• 75%

• 50%

Which gene is linked to the perception of sweetness?

• T1R2

• T2R38

• O6A2

• PTC