High flying beverage taste test
When you’re flying at high altitudes, you might notice that your beloved coffee and tea taste a bit different than when you’re on the ground. But fear not, it’s all due to the unique conditions of the airplane’s environment and how they interact with our taste buds.
You see, up in the air, the atmospheric pressure is lower than what we’re accustomed to on the ground. This lower air pressure affects the way our taste buds function, making certain flavours less pronounced and possibly dulling down the overall taste of our beverages. So, your coffee or tea might not have that same robust flavour you’re used to.
To add to that, airplanes have controlled environments with lower humidity to keep passengers comfortable and the aircraft in good shape. However, this dry air can dry out your taste buds and your sense of smell. Since smell and taste are closely connected, if you can’t fully smell your coffee or tea’s aroma, it might not taste as rich or flavourful as usual.
The combination of reduced air pressure and dry air can also influence your taste perception. Some people find that sweet and salty flavours are less affected, while more delicate flavours, like the bitterness present in coffee and tea, can be altered.
Imagine yourself sitting in your airplane seat, eagerly taking a sip of your favourite drink. The unique airplane environment is subtly at work, changing the taste experience. Your once-bold coffee might seem milder, and the subtle notes in your tea might not shine through as they usually do on the ground.
Of course, everyone’s taste buds are different, so not everyone might notice this change. Some people might not perceive any difference at all. But for those who do, it’s just one of those quirky things that come with the territory of flying.
The good news is that once you’re back on solid ground, your coffee and tea should return to their familiar, delicious selves. So, the next time you’re soaring through the skies, take a moment to appreciate the unique science experiment happening in your taste buds. Enjoy your journey and savour your beverages!
