Becoming familiar with the science of food aesthetics is like learning feng shui for the palate. Although it would surprise many in our gluttonous western world to know it, enjoyment of food is not just about getting full. There are many aspects to the enjoyment of food besides how hearty it is. Scientists, chefs and marketers have all long ago realized the value of making food look good, as well as smell good and taste good.

Researchers have done tests with subjects being blindfolded and given food to taste. It was noted by the subjects by not being able to first see the food they were about to eat, it made it less appetizing, and even, less tasty. Therefore, the appearance of food is just as important as taste, smell and texture. continue reading »

Go into the break room of any office or workplace, and you will surely find every manner of chips, cookies, cakes, coffee, and soft drinks. Westerners love food, and we love fatty, unhealthy junk foods more than any other, it seems. It appears that English-speaking peoples have developed some decidedly unhealthy eating habits, exchanging wholesome, fresh food for synthetic, over-processed pseudo-food. Some people tend to snack at work, when they are sitting at a desk performing a monotonous task, while others habitually “munch” while they are at home. People who are trying to quit smoking have a tendency to snack in order to cope with their desire for a cigarette. continue reading »