News|Articles|January 9, 2026

Cilantro flavor

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Key Takeaways

  • Genetic variations in olfactory-receptor genes lead to the perception of cilantro as soapy for some individuals.
  • Aldehydes in cilantro, similar to those in soaps, are responsible for the soapy taste perception.
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Fun fact! Because of a genetic variation, some people perceive cilantro as tasting soapy. Click to learn more.

Fun fact! Because of a variation in a group of olfactory-receptor genes, some people are able to perceive the soapy-flavored aldehydes in the cilantro herb (coriander leaves).

Source: Britannica. Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap to Some People? https://www.britannica.com/story/why-does-cilantro-taste-like-soap-to-some-people (Accessed 2026-01-08).

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