Gustation and Olfaction
Gustation, or taste, is the sensory process that allows us to perceive flavors through taste buds located on the tongue. These taste buds detect five primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Each taste plays a role in how we experience food and beverages, influencing our preferences and dietary choices.
Olfaction, or smell, involves the detection of airborne molecules by sensory receptors in the nasal cavity. This sense is closely linked to taste, as aromas significantly enhance flavor perception. Together, gustation and olfaction contribute to our overall experience of food, making them essential for enjoying meals.