Taste sensations refer to the five basic tastes that our taste buds can detect: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Each taste plays a crucial role in how we perceive flavors in food and beverages. For example, sweet tastes often indicate energy-rich foods, while sour can signal spoilage. These tastes are detected by specialized cells on the tongue, which send signals to the brain to interpret the flavor. Additionally, aroma and texture also contribute to our overall taste experience, making it a complex interplay of senses that enhances our enjoyment of food.