Three Cheers for the Five (Plus) Senses
I was just reading an article in The New York Times on the “Hunt for an Edible Equivalent of Viagara”, which explores the reputed aphrodisiacal powers of food. It seems that scientists have taken a strong interest in the powers of taste and smell to manipulate our behavior, and are investigating the truth behind the rumors.
You can read the complete article yourself for the suspects and the proofs, but the bottom line as far as I can tell is that there’s too much at play to draw any specific conclusions. In some cases it’s the right combination of scents, in other circumstances it’s a special combination of memories evoked by the scent that changes our feelings. Some foods have power because of the way they look, and others because of the nutrients within.
I think it’s a very personal combination of taste, smell, look, sound (crunchy, squishy, etc.), texture, and the sixth sense – the mind – that creates that perfect menu for romantic dining. Where you grew up, what your family enjoyed on special occasions, memories of your first high school date, the cultural influences you absorbed throughout your life - all of those situations add to the power of the food you enjoy today.
Bon Appetit and Happy Valentine’s Day!
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4 Responses to “Three Cheers for the Five (Plus) Senses”
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I think what you really want is to avoid food that kills the mood.
Such as….?
uni, limburger cheese
Thought you were suggesting beans or sauerkraut.