Are You a “Supertaster?” How Taste Sensitivity May Affect You

About 25 percent of the U.S. population is extremely sensitive to a bitter chemical in food called 6-n-propylthiouracil, or PROP, according to Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. This group of PROP-sensitive people are classified as “supertasters.” While average tasters only perceive a slightly bitter flavor from PROP, supertasters may cringe at it.

Supertasters are particularly known for disliking bitter foods like kale and other veggies, but they also seem to be more sensitive to sweet, salty, and umami flavors. They’re also more likely to find spicy food painful, since pain receptors surround taste cells on the papillae; more papillae mean more pain receptors. Regardless of your food habits and preferences, if you’re concerned about your diet and its effect on your health, speak with a doctor or registered dietitian for tips for the healthiest you.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Brian Clista, MD

Dr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.

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