January 7, 2013

Umami and Human Happiness: How Powerful is the Fifth Flavor?

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This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American

Although glutamate was discovered in 1908, it wasn't until the 1980s that it came to be described as 'umami', the fifth flavor. It is a savory taste, to go along with our other flavors of sweet, salty, bitter and sour. Umami is translated from Japanese to mean 'pleasant savory taste'. The fact that there are separate glutamate receptors on the tongue caused scientists to proclaim that savory was a different sensation than salty (which has its own receptors). A new video series (commissioned by the Umami Burger chain but not an overt advertisement for the restaurants) takes a humorous approach to the study of the fifth flavor.

Our hero scientist Dr. Kanye West (no, the other Kanye West) wonders: is there a link between umami and human happiness?

The videos are humorous and light, and are certainly not meant to point towards any kind of valid scientific study. However, it's important to appreciate the times when mainstream media chooses to embrace a scientific/documentary style that is truly in the spirit of science. I found them fun and well worth taking a few minutes break from my work day. Enjoy!

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