Horizon Season 2004 Episode 13 Derek Tastes of Earwax

Derek Tastes of Earwax is an episode from the famous Horizon series that aired in 2004. This informative documentary delves into the intriguing science of taste, and explores the question of whether taste preferences are result of nature or nurture.

The episode begins with a group of scientists who are conducting an intriguing experiment to test whether people have a genetic disposition towards certain tastes. They invite a group of twins to participate and test their taste preferences in a controlled laboratory environment. The results of the experiment are fascinating, and offer invaluable insights into the role our genes play in determining our tastes.

Next, the episode takes a turn to focus on the science behind how we taste food, and the complex process that takes place within our mouths. The documentary explains that our sense of taste is far more complex than the four well-known tastes of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. There are numerous other tastes such as fat, metallic, and umami that people may not be aware of, but that significantly impact the overall flavor of foods.

The documentary also discusses the fascinating biology of taste buds and how they work. Scientists have long known that different regions of the tongue are more responsive to certain tastes, but new research is shedding more light on this fascinating subject. By using microelectrodes, scientists are able to observe individual taste buds and detect the patterns of electrical activity that occur when we taste food. This technology has helped scientists gain a better understanding of the neural processes that are involved in our perception of taste.

Later in the episode, the focus shifts to the fascinating subject of food aversions. Some people are naturally more adventurous eaters than others, and scientists have been interested in studying this for many years. Derek Tastes of Earwax goes into detail on this subject, discussing some of the theory and research behind why some people have a stronger aversion to certain tastes or textures than others. Some of the factors that impact our food preferences, such as repeated exposure and cultural upbringing, are also explored.

In the final portion of the episode, Derek Tastes of Earwax tackles the fascinating subject of flavor combinations. This part of the documentary explores the way in which different flavors can be combined to create new and exciting tastes. The experts interviewed in the program discuss the role that experimentation and creativity play in this process, as well as the scientific theory behind flavor pairing.

Overall, the Horizon episode Derek Tastes of Earwax is a fascinating and informative exploration of the complex science behind our sense of taste. Whether you're a food lover or simply someone interested in the way that human biology works, this documentary is packed full of intriguing insights that will make you view the world of taste in a whole new way.