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Unit 1 The Science of Food
Purpose
You usually use a combination of senses to identify foods. In
this experiment, you will look at the role your sense of smell plays
in evaluating food products. You will examine how accurately you
can identify foods by only their aromas.
Equipment
blindfold
Supplies
a shoebox containing coded food samples in portion cups with lids
Procedure
Choose a lab partner or work with the partner your teacher assigns
you. Determine which of you will identify aromas fi rst and which
will record the data. The partner who is recording the data will
follow the steps of the procedure.
1. Blindfold the partner who will be identifying aromas.
2. Open the shoebox and remove one container. Open the lid and
hold the container in front of your partner.
3. Have your partner wave his or her hand over the container to
direct the aroma toward his or her nose. Ask your partner to
identify the aroma he or she is smelling.
Experiment 3A
Odor Recognition
Safety
• Do not taste samples.
• Do not smell samples directly when
identifying aromas. Some foods are
lightweight powders, which could easily
be inhaled. Instead, wave your hand over
the top of the container to direct the aroma
toward your nose.
• Do not move around when blindfolded.