Ever wondered why coriander tastes like soap to some people? Dietitian explains science behind it
New Delhi: For many people, freshly chopped coriander is an essential finishing touch to everyday meals. It is commonly added to dal, curries and salads or used to prepare chutney, enhancing both flavour and aroma. For others, the same herb tastes unpleasantly like soap, making it difficult to enjoy foods that contain it. While this difference is often dismissed as a matter of personal preference, experts say genetics play a significant role in how coriander is perceived.
However, genes are not the only factor. Changes in the sense of smell caused by illness, pregnancy, ageing and even certain medicines can also influence how the herb tastes. Grace Abraham, Senior Clinical Dietitian, SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore, explained why coriander evokes such different reactions and why disliking it is usually nothing to worry about.
Role of genes
Scientists have identified genetic variations that influence how some people perceive the flavour of coriander.
“It depends on genetics whether coriander tastes like fresh citrus or soapy to an individual. It has been found that there are genetic variations in olfactory receptors, especially the OR6A2 gene, which increase sensitivity to aldehydes naturally occurring in coriander leaves. These chemicals trigger smell receptors more strongly in some people, leading to a soapy taste,” Grace Abraham explained.
Other factors
Although genetics are a major reason, the dietitian said other factors can alter a person’s perception of coriander over time.
“Repeated exposure, cultural food preferences, ageing and changes in the sense of smell due to illness can also determine whether a person eventually learns to like coriander. However, one thing to keep in mind is that being unable to tolerate coriander does not indicate any health problem, deficiency or allergy in most cases. It is usually a harmless variation in the sense of smell,” said the clinical dietitian.
She added that temporary changes in taste and smell may also occur because of:
- A cold or sinus infection
- Changes in taste during pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Changes in smell after illnesses
Can you train yourself to like coriander?
Some people may gradually become accustomed to coriander after repeated exposure, but this does not happen in every case.
“Recent studies show that even if repeated exposure helps people tolerate coriander in some cases, genetically driven dislike often persists,” Grace Abraham noted.
Experts say there is no need to force yourself to eat coriander if you dislike its flavour. Since the aversion is usually linked to the way the brain interprets certain aroma compounds, it is considered a normal variation rather than a medical condition.