Australian scientists argue fat is its own flavor

A group of Australian scientists is arguing that fat is the sixth taste — and recognizing it could help fight obesity.

The previously accepted list of five tastes includes sweet, salt, sour, bitter, and umami. In a new study published in the Flavor Journal, researchers from Deakin University in Melbourne write that fat should be added to the list.

To be considered a taste, fat must meet five criteria, including that the tongue's taste buds can detect fatty acids. The scientists' previous research found that people who are more sensitive to the taste of fat will eat less of it.

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Russell Keast, co-author of the study, told The Australian Associated Press that "the evidence now is comprehensive and overwhelming enough to call fat a taste." He added that simply removing fat from food isn't a good diet strategy, "because you haven't matched the taste component, which has all of these other physiological and psychological effects that will affect the liking and acceptance of the food."