Neuroscientists and biologists study how we process our senses and the impact our receptors have on our food choices. The video, part of a food science series from PBS, highlights the nerves used in eating including the taste and olfactory receptors—but also how these nerves trigger emotions and social cues. The video also details how chefs use this knowledge to create new, tempting recipes.

Concepts

sense of taste, taste buds, sense of smell, smell, texture, nerves, the brain

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

social studies

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Discuss how food often tastes different when you have a stuffy nose

Classroom Considerations

• Can stream online or download to view offline
• Discusses wine making and tasting, so consider the maturity of viewers

Pros

• Clearly explains the difference between taste and flavor
• Applies science to everyday experiences

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.4 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4