Looking for a Better Life?
A recent article in The Guardian, “The Big Idea: Looking for a Better Life? Follow Your Nose,” delves into the profound role our sense of smell plays in shaping our emotions, memories, and overall well-being. Despite being one of our most powerful senses, olfaction is often overlooked in daily life. The piece highlights how certain scents can evoke vivid memories, alter mood, and even impact decision-making.
How Cancer Treatments Affect Taste and Quality of Life
February 4th marks World Cancer Day, a time to reflect on the progress made in cancer treatments and the lives saved through medical advancements. Breakthroughs in oncology have transformed cancer from a once-terminal diagnosis into a manageable disease for many, with improved survival rates and innovative therapies. However, alongside these successes, the long-term effects of treatment on patients’ quality of life remain a critical yet often overlooked issue.
The Science of Taste, Smell, and Love in Valentine’s Day Traditions
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and nothing evokes deep emotions quite like food. The act of sharing a meal has long been a symbol of connection, romance, and sensory delight. Across cultures, flavors and aromas play an essential role in how we express affection, reinforcing the profound link between food, memory, and emotion. But what is the science behind this connection, and why do certain foods become synonymous with romance?
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.
The Rise of the ‘Not Ultra-Processed’ Certification
In a world where grocery store shelves are awash with labels like “natural,” “organic,” and “clean,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, amid this sea of claims, one of the most pressing issues remains largely obscured: the ubiquity of ultra-processed foods.
Why Innovation is a Must in Today’s Food and Beverage Industry
In today’s food and beverage world, innovation isn’t optional—it’s the catalyst for thriving in an ever-changing market. With consumer preferences shifting faster than ever, and powerful trends like plant-based eating, sustainable sourcing, and personalized nutrition reshaping the landscape, companies must evolve continuously—or risk falling behind.
Exploring the Next Chapter of Multi-Sensory Dining: New Insights from Menu Matters
Recent insights from Menu Matters reveal a fascinating shift in how diners are more sensorially engaged with their meals.
Awaken Your Senses: The Science and Practice of Smell Training
Smell training is a science-backed method for improving olfactory function, whether you’re recovering from anosmia, navigating parosmia, or simply aiming to refine your sense of smell.
Calling for partners: HITLAB’s Alzheimer’s Disease research study
Our friends at HITLAB is conducting an innovative Alzheimer’s Disease research study focused on developing novel diagnostics and monitoring solution. They are seeking neurologists and independent clinics for collaboration.
The Future of Mouthfeel: Innovations to Watch in 2025
In 2025, mouthfeel innovation is poised to redefine our sensory engagement. Here are some emerging trends with WTSA Co-Founder Mindy Yang’s insights into how they are transforming the food and beverage landscape.
OPPORTUNITY: curatorial fellow Opportunity at MOFAD
MOFAD is seeking a curatorial fellow to assist with the research and curation of our next exhibition. This is a part-time, six-month, grant-funded position ($15,000) beginning in early 2025 (ideal start date early February). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and accepted through the end of January.
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Health Policy Research Scholars Program
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Health Policy Research Scholars Program invites applications from doctoral students who will begin their second year of full-time study in Fall 2025.
Unlock the Secrets of Fruits and Vegetables Through Smell
Have you ever wondered how your sense of smell shapes your connection to food? Discover how the aromas of fruits and vegetables can guide you to the perfect ripeness, elevate your cooking, and spark your curiosity about the natural world.
Dive into this sensory journey and explore how paying attention to smell can transform your relationship with food.
Celebrating Sensitivity and Neurodivergence: A Personal Reflection on Thriving Authentically
Dive into the latest episode of The World of Taste & Smell podcast, where hosts Mindy Yang and Stephanie Feur chat with leadership coach and author Rachel Radway about embracing sensitivity and neurodivergence as strengths. Discover how being “wired differently” can become a superpower, the importance of inclusive workplaces, and the role of sensory perception in connection and innovation. Learn actionable tips for creating supportive environments and hear inspiring stories from Rachel’s upcoming book, Perceptive: Owning Your Power When You’re Wired Differently.
applications Closing soon- WFFC Scholarship Opportunities
Women in Flavor and Fragrance Commerce (WFFC), was founded in 1982 to support women in the industry through networking, education, and career advancement, is now accepting applications for its 2025 scholarships:
• Rita Flynn Memorial Fragrance Scholarship
• Flavor Scholarship
• She Works Scholarship
hyper-crunch and other mouthfeel trends
“Hyper-crunch,” “mouthfeel mimicry,” “air,” “next-gen naturality,” “convenience and shelf proof” and “climate-proof food” are trending mouthfeels for 2025. Factors like climate change, busier lifestyles and consumer demand for healthier alternatives will continue to drive product reformulations, and brands that actively work to keep their core products tasting great will thrive,” says Marina Di Migueli, global marketing director for Texturants and Proteins at Tate & Lyle.
3 Facts on Taste, Smell Loss, and Sports Injuries for Athletes
Check out these astounding facts About taste, smell loss, and sports injuries for athletes. If you or someone you know is experiencing taste and smell distortions, please visit our RESOURCES links for support.
teenage boys have grown obsessed with designer fragrances that cost hundreds of dollars.
Smellmaxxing, Explained
Some teenage boys have grown obsessed with designer fragrances that cost hundreds of dollars. The New York Time explains this trend.
Do people who can’t smell really breathe differently?
A new study suggests just that congenital anosmics breather differently than people with normal semll abilities.
Food Technology Magazine: Technology-Driven Flavors
Artificial intelligence and precision fermentation are creating new flavor development options. In “Technology-Driven Flavors”, WTSA’s Alex Woo, Ph.D. and Mindy Yang share how artificial intelligence (AI) and precision fermentation are revolutionizing flavor development in the food industry. AI is enabling companies to create unique, personalized flavors based on consumer preferences and emerging trends, while precision fermentation helps produce rare and sustainable ingredients. These innovations align with consumer demand for natural, healthier, and eco-friendly products, shaping the future of culinary experiences. Technology and nature are intersecting to create flavors that are more delicious and sustainable.
