Taste perception is the process by which our taste buds detect different flavors in food and beverages. The human tongue has taste receptors that identify five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. These receptors send signals to the brain, allowing us to experience and differentiate flavors. In addition to taste, smell plays a crucial role in how we perceive flavor. When we eat, aroma molecules travel to the olfactory receptors in the nose, enhancing our overall experience. This combination of taste and smell helps us enjoy and appreciate the variety of foods we consume.