We have done some extensive experiments on taste buds: how they are categorized, what tastes they recognize, and we have even mapped their location on your tongue. But we haven’t yet mentioned this fact: not all people can taste the same flavors!


So today we will check to see if you have a dominant or recessive gene for a distinct genetic characteristic. We’ll do this by testing your reaction to the taste of a chemical called phenylthiocarbamide (or PTC, for short). The interesting thing about PTC is that some people can taste it – and generally have a very adverse reaction. However, some people can’t taste it at all.


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Comments

9 Responses to “PTC Testing”

  1. Malcolm Smith says:

    Thanks!

  2. Malcolm Smith says:

    Dear Aurora,
    Where can I find PCT paper?
    (I live in Australia.)
    From Briar.

  3. Michelle Palmer says:

    Is this included in the kits?

  4. Check the shopping list for this unit for a link to an online store.

  5. Nancy Babicz says:

    Where do you get PTC paper?

  6. No – entirely different, although these look the same on the outside.

  7. Lorelei Grecian says:

    pH indicator isn’t the same is it. 🙁