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Recent research into aroma perception - the process by which the brain detects scent molecules from food - has primarily focused on the physical and chemical properties of these substances and their release during chewing. However, the role of the oral microbiome in this process is still underexplored, offering new insights into how microorganisms shape the flavours we experience.
What We Know:
While taste is detected by the tongue’s taste buds, aroma involves volatile compounds released from food that are detected by olfactory receptors in the nose. Aroma significantly enhances flavour, allowing us to distinguish foods with similar tastes. During chewing, aroma compounds travel from the mouth to the nasal cavity (retronasal olfaction), blending with taste to create a complete sensory experience (Xi et al., 2024).
The oral microbiome plays a crucial role in aroma perception. These microorganisms interact with food compounds in various ways, such as breaking down odourless molecules and transforming them into volatile compounds that we perceive as aroma. Moreover, the oral microbiota influences how taste and smell signals are processed by the brain, further affecting overall flavour perception (Xi et al., 2024).
Emerging research indicates that oral microbiota help metabolise complex food precursors, such as glycosides, into flavour-active molecules during chewing. A balanced oral microbiome enhances flavour perception, while an imbalance may dull or alter this sensory experience (Xi et al., 2024).
Industry Impact and Potential:
Research is still in infancy regarding the role of the oral microbiome in aroma perception. Therefore, harnessing the power of oral bacteria to enhance flavours or create novel sensory experiences is a promising avenue of exploration. Furthermore, understanding how the oral microbiome contributes to the perception of scent and taste could also lead to the development of targeted oral care products that maintain or improve flavour perception by supporting a healthy microbiome.
A company that harnesses the intricate relationship between taste, scent, and retronasal olfaction is @air up®, which has developed innovative water bottles featuring built-in scent-releasing pods. This design allows users to enjoy unflavoured water while experiencing specific flavours, as the released scents interact with the olfactory system to create a taste sensation in the mouth.
Our Solution:
Sequential is a leading authority in microbiome product testing and formulation, offering customisable solutions that empower businesses to innovate oral hygiene products while preserving microbiome integrity. We ensure the efficacy and compatibility of products for a healthier oral microbiome, making us the ideal partner to help your company explore the potential of oral, as well as skin, scalp and vaginal, microbiome studies and product development.
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