Flavor and Wellness

Fifth Taste

3 articles

A chef preparing a visually appealing dish, emphasizing the rich, savory elements that contribute to the umami flavor profile.
Food

What Is Umami and Why Does This Fifth Taste Matter in Cooking?

Beyond just making food taste good, the fifth basic taste, umami, has been shown to protect against duodenal cancer.

Isabella Cortez·May 4, 2026
Chef artfully plating a gourmet dish, showcasing the visual appeal and complexity of umami-rich ingredients in a culinary setting.
Food

What Are the Scientific Principles of Umami Taste?

In a lab experiment, combining glutamate with 5′-inosinate made rats respond to umami 1.

Isabella Cortez·April 26, 2026
A visually rich display of umami-rich foods like aged Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, shiitake mushrooms, and seaweed, beautifully lit on a wooden surface, symbolizing the depth of the fifth taste.
Food

Understanding Umami: The Science and Application of the Fifth Taste

Umami, the fifth basic taste, adds profound depth and satisfaction to food. Learn how to identify and harness this savory sensation to transform your cooking.

Isabella Cortez·April 4, 2026