Flavor: The Science of Our Most Neglected Sense
SKU: 86836484338

Flavor: The Science of Our Most Neglected Sense

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Description

Flavor: The Science of Our Most Neglected SenseCan you describe how the flavor of halibut differs from that of red snapper? How the taste of a Fuji apple differs from a Spartan? For most of us, this is a difficult task: flavor remains a vague, undeveloped concept that we don't know enough about to describe or appreciate fully. In this delightful and compelling exploration of our most neglected sense, veteran science reporter Bob Holmes shows us just how much we're missing. Considering every angle

Can you describe how the flavor of halibut differs from that of red snapper? How the taste of a Fuji apple differs from a Spartan? For most of us, this is a difficult task: flavor remains a vague, undeveloped concept that we don't know enough about to describe--or appreciate--fully. In this delightful and compelling exploration of our most neglected sense, veteran science reporter Bob Holmes shows us just how much we're missing.

Considering every angle of flavor from our neurobiology to the science and practice of modern food production, Holmes takes readers on a journey to uncover the broad range of factors that can affect our appreciation of a fine meal or an exceptional glass of wine. He peers over the shoulders of some of the most fascinating food professionals working today, from cutting-edge chefs to food engineers to mathematicians investigating the perfect combination of pizza toppings. He talks with flavor and olfactory scientists, who describe why two people can experience remarkably different sensations from the same morsel of food, and how something as seemingly unrelated as cultural heritage can actually impact our sense of smell.

Along the way, even more surprising facts are revealed: that cake tastes sweetest on white plates; that wine experts' eyes can fool their noses; and even that language can affect our sense of taste. Flavor expands our curiosity and understanding of one of our most intimate sensations, while ultimately revealing how we can all sharpen our senses and our enjoyment of the things we taste.

Certain to fascinate everyone from gourmands and scientists to home cooks and their guests, Flavor will open your mind--and palette--to a vast, exciting sensory world.



Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Published: 04/25/2017
ISBN: 9780393244427
Pages: 320
Weight: 1.10lbs
Size: 9.30h x 6.10w x 1.30d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 02/27/2017
Kirkus Reviews 03/01/2017
Library Journal 03/15/2017 pg. 137
Booklist 03/15/2017 pg. 10
Shelf Awareness 05/16/2017
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SKU: 86836484338

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JNL220
Boise, US
★★★★★ 5
Don’t let the bad reviews deter you from saving your skin
Style: Restorative Protective Cream-3.3 Fl Oz, Style: Restorative Protective Cream-3.3 Fl Oz
I avoided purchasing this product for a while due to the bad reviews. However, it is still highly recommended by several dermatologist for skin barrier repair. Upon doing my own research, the product can separate if it is stored in cold temperatures (41 degrees or less). This can be fixed people!! It literally says it on the bottle/box and there’s even a video that Amazon posted saying this can happen. It does not affect the product. It’s just the thermal spring water and some oil separating but it can be reincorporated. So I took the risk and ordered this. I’m a first time purchaser. It was already at my door when I was leaving for the gym at 5:30am so I let the package sit in my car for about 1.5 hours (temp was about 70s). I put the tube in a glass of hot sink water for 10 minutes when I got home. I rolled the tube in my hands for a few minutes to mix everything together. Guess what. It came out like a CREAM. No liquid shot out at me. If you can read, do a little research, and can follow instructions, you can get a working product. I have sensitive skin. It’s been a struggle healing my skin barrier but it was getting better. I decided to do something dumb and try dermaplaning. My cheeks have been very red and irritated since. I did avoid active products for a few days after dermaplaning but it was still irritated. Just with the first time use of this product, it was nearly instant relief of some of the redness. It’s fragrance less which is great. It is currently on sale so I think the value is good for what it is right now. I only used two pea-sized amount for my whole face so I think it will last awhile. This can significantly help your skin barrier! Do your own research and read the instructions!
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Reviewed in the United States on May 20, 2026
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S. Lewis
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 3
Samples great, purchased product not
Style: Restorative Protective Cream-1.3 Fl Oz
My dermatologist recommended this cream after a laser procedure, and gave me some samples to take home. I found the thick, smooth cream calming and protective for my irritated skin. The zinc oxide leaves a whitish cast at first, which does tend to fade after it sinks in, but it could be problem if you have darker skin. Not an issue for me since I’m pale. Because I liked the samples, I ordered two full-size tubes. Both arrived with the product inside completely separated. The texture was nothing like the samples. I opened the first tube and clear, watery liquid spilled everywhere. I quickly recapped it, shook and squeezed the tube as much as possible to try to re-emulsify the product, and it remained stubbornly separated, with chunky white paste suspended in thin liquid. I’ve thoroughly shaken the second tube and continue to hear the sloshing of thin liquid. So apparently once the cream has separated, it will not re-mix. I don’t know what caused the unacceptable condition of the product—manufacturing variation, storage conditions prior to shipping, or conditions during shipment. Whatever it was, I would not buy this product in this way again. The samples were a five star product. The full size product I received was zero stars.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 15, 2026
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Najma Ahmed
Pawtucket, US
★★★★★ 4
Helped calm my damaged skin barrier, but expect stinging on very raw skin
Style: Restorative Protective Cream-1.3 Fl Oz
I bought this because I severely damaged my skin barrier and needed something gentle that would help my skin calm down and heal. My skin was extremely sensitive, raw, irritated, tight, and honestly uncomfortable even with water touching it. This did help, but I do want to mention that if your skin is VERY damaged or raw, there can be some stinging at first. I experienced that myself during the first few applications. The stinging didn’t last long for me, but I think it’s important to mention because people with damaged barriers are usually desperate for relief and can panic when products sting. What ended up helping me most was using this as part of a simple barrier repair routine instead of using it alone. What I personally did: * Wet my face first with either water or Avène Thermal Spring Water so my skin was damp but not soaking wet * Applied the Avène Cicalfate onto the damp skin * At night, I sealed everything in with CeraVe Healing Ointment (Aquaphor would probably work too) I repeated this every night before bed and sometimes during the day if I was staying home. If I was leaving the house during the day, I would do the same steps but use sunscreen instead of sealing with ointment. I honestly think sunscreen is extremely important when your skin barrier is damaged and trying to heal because irritated skin feels even more sensitive when exposed to sunlight. I used this day and night, very easy to use, and didn’t experience breakouts from it. The texture is thick but comforting once applied, especially when your skin feels dry and stripped. Overall, I would buy this again. I don’t think it’s some overnight miracle product, but it genuinely helped my skin calm down and recover when my barrier was damaged. I personally didn’t notice any strong fragrance, which I appreciated since my skin was already extremely irritated. I also like how versatile this product is. Even though I originally bought it for barrier damage, I can see why people use it for irritation from retinol, over-exfoliating, dry patches, or skin that just feels compromised in general.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2026
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Taylor Ashley
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 5
Holy Grail of Moisturizers
Style: Restorative Protective Cream-3.3 Fl Oz
I bought this after hearing a dermatologist on Instagram rave about this cream and now I see why. As someone who suffers from pretty severe eczema this is my go to holy grail for flair ups. Perfect for sensitive skin and can be used daily. It is very thick so provides a thick layer of moisture on your skin. I will say I have bought 2 sizes in this and the smaller size (1.3fl oz) did separate and had a liquid part that would come out. I have bought numerous tubes of the larger size (3.3fl oz) and never had an issue with separation with the larger size. I’m learning as I get older that more expensive does not mean better quality skincare. This is one that is not only affordable, but will also give you noticeable results. I have everyone in my whole family using this product!
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Reviewed in the United States on May 17, 2026
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Leyla Leiva
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
6-Month Update: Still a staple for sensitive, acne-prone skin
Size: 3.38 Fl Oz (Pack of 1), Size: 3.38 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
I originally reviewed this ampoule when I first started using it, and now after about six months of consistent use (morning and night), I feel confident giving a more long-term update. I have sensitive, acne-prone, combination skin, and this has remained one of the most reliable products in my routine. The texture is still one of my favorite things about it — very lightweight, absorbs quickly, and layers well under moisturizer and sunscreen without pilling. Over time, I’ve noticed: Less visible redness More balanced oil production in my T-zone Fewer irritation flare-ups when introducing new products No clogged pores or breakouts from this formula It doesn’t feel heavy or sticky, even in humid weather. I’ve continued repurchasing and even keep it on subscription because it consistently performs without causing sensitivity. If you’re looking for a gentle, soothing centella product that works well for long-term barrier support, this has proven to be a dependable option in my experience.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 9, 2025

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