Which sensory trait of a product is detected when its volatiles enter the nasal passage and are perceived by the olfactory system?
Show Hint
"Flavor" is a combination of both taste (tongue) and odour (nose). This is why food tastes "bland" when you have a cold and your nasal passages are blocked.
Concept:
Sensory evaluation involves the use of human senses to analyze food products.
• Gustatory System: Related to taste (tongue).
• Olfactory System: Related to smell (nasal cavity).
• Volatiles: Chemical compounds that easily vaporize at room temperature.
Step 1: Understanding the Olfactory process.
When we sniff a product, volatile aromatic compounds travel through the nostrils.
They reach the olfactory epithelium at the top of the nasal passage.
Step 2: Differentiating Taste and Odour.
Taste involves non-volatile chemicals dissolved in saliva.
Odour (or Aroma) is strictly the perception of volatile gases.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The trait perceived through the nasal passage and the olfactory system is Odour.
Final Answer: (D)