Why Can't I Taste the Bitterness in Dark Chocolate?

Unable to taste the bitterness of dark chocolate?

Hello Doctor: While sharing snacks with friends, I unexpectedly discovered that several friends around my age seemed to find the 90% dark chocolate we were sharing quite bitter, but I hardly perceived any bitterness at all, only a lack of sweetness.
I recalled that many years ago, I had eaten high-concentration dark chocolate and indeed found it very bitter, but today, I experienced no bitterness.
Is this kind of change in taste perception normal? (For example, does human sensitivity to the bitterness of chocolate decrease with age?) To test my taste, I chewed on a few coffee beans, which definitely had bitterness.
In fact, aside from the dark chocolate mentioned above, I have not noticed any other changes in my taste perception.
I consider myself generally healthy, and my health check-up a year ago was normal.
In summary, is it normal not to taste the bitterness in dark chocolate? Or should I consult a doctor for further examination? Thank you for your clarification! :)

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/31

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Based on your description, it is most likely "acute glossitis." It is recommended to supplement with B vitamins and to avoid consuming stimulants such as coffee, tea, fried foods, spicy foods, cigarettes, and alcoholic beverages.
After eating, use an alcohol-free mouthwash or rinse with clean water to maintain good oral hygiene, which can help alleviate symptoms.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngology clinic for a thorough examination to determine the exact cause.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Director Chi Chao-Yun, Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/10/31

More Info

The inability to taste the bitterness in dark chocolate can be attributed to several factors, including individual differences in taste perception, changes in taste sensitivity over time, and even dietary habits. It is indeed normal for taste perception to vary among individuals, and it can change over time due to various reasons.

Firstly, taste perception is highly subjective and can differ significantly from person to person. The human tongue has taste buds that detect five primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. The sensitivity to these tastes can vary based on genetic factors, age, and even cultural influences. Some people may have a heightened sensitivity to bitterness, while others may find it less pronounced. This variation can explain why your friends perceive the dark chocolate as bitter while you do not.

Moreover, age can play a role in taste perception. As people age, their taste buds may become less sensitive, leading to a diminished ability to detect certain flavors, including bitterness. This phenomenon is often observed in older adults, but it can also occur in younger individuals due to various lifestyle factors, such as smoking, dietary choices, or overall health.

Your experience of previously tasting bitterness in high-concentration dark chocolate but not in your recent tastings could also be influenced by your dietary habits. If you have been consuming less bitter foods or have developed a preference for sweeter flavors, your taste buds may have adapted, making you less sensitive to bitterness. Additionally, the presence of other flavors in the chocolate, such as sweetness or creaminess, can mask the bitter notes, making them less detectable.

Another aspect to consider is the psychological component of taste perception. If you approach the chocolate with the expectation that it will be bitter, you may be more likely to perceive that bitterness. Conversely, if you are not anticipating bitterness, you may not register it as strongly. This cognitive aspect of taste perception can significantly influence how we experience flavors.

If you are concerned about your taste perception, particularly if you notice other changes in your senses or overall health, it may be worthwhile to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions that may be affecting your taste. However, if your overall health is good and you are not experiencing any other symptoms, it is likely that your experience with dark chocolate is simply a reflection of normal variations in taste perception.

In summary, not tasting the bitterness in dark chocolate is generally considered normal and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including individual taste sensitivity, age, dietary habits, and psychological expectations. If you have no other health concerns, there may be no need for alarm. However, if you wish to explore this further, consulting a healthcare professional could provide additional insights.

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