
Taste, Smell, and the Future of Brain Health
September is World Taste & Smell Month, a time to celebrate the senses that shape how we enjoy food, connect with others, and make sense of the world around us. But taste and smell are more than just pleasures — they are vital to our health, safety, and even early warning signs of what’s happening inside our brains.

From SoulCycle to Smell Cycle: NYC’s Next Optimization Craze
Research shows that rosemary, peppermint, lavender, and even yuzu can measurably impact focus, memory, stress, and mood. In a world obsessed with optimization, maybe the smartest edge isn’t another app or latte… it’s the air we breathe.

The Nose Knows: Why the Future of Virtual Reality Smells Different
One person’s lavender is another’s laundry trauma. Without nuance, scent can become a glitch in the matrix. Mindy share more on this.

In the mood: A Timely Webinar on Mood-Enhancing Foods & Beverages Set for June 24
From adaptogenic drinks and dopamine-boosting snacks to functional foods for hormonal balance, consumer interest in products that elevate emotional well-being is reshaping the F&B landscape.

Chemosensory Dysfunction in Cancer Care: Why Taste and Smell Deserve a Seat at the Table
A 2025 study published in the Journal of Cancer Education by Stromberg et al. makes the case clear: chemosensory dysfunction is common, disruptive, and under-addressed.

The 7 Fragrance Trends Dominating 2025: The Future Is More Than a Scent
From interactive storytelling and sculptural packaging to the rise of indie perfumers and culturally rich narratives, WTSA’s Mindy Yang highlights the industry’s shift towards more personalized and emotionally resonant creations.
Discover how home scenting is becoming a key aspect of wellness and interior design, and how perfumers are finally gaining recognition as the artists behind these olfactory masterpieces.
Read the full article here: The 7 Fragrance Trends Dominating 2025: The Future Is More Than a Scent.

Hate cilantro or anchovies? Evolutionary science could explain why
Complex factors influence our food preferences and aversions. Evolutionary biology, genetics, personal experiences, and cultural backgrounds all come into play.

Celebrating Lunar New Year’s Eve: A Feast of Traditions and Good Fortune
Around the world, the start of the new year is marked by traditions that center on food, family, and hope for the future. Whether you’re savoring dumplings, slurping long noodles, or sharing a toast, the act of gathering together is universal. What ties these traditions together is a shared spirit of optimism—a collective wish for happiness, connection, and prosperity in the year to come.