Your tongue is covered in bumps called papillae. Papillae have taste receptors that are bundled together (taste buds). Taste buds have microscopic hairs called microvilli which send nerve impulses to the brain. However, your nose plays a role too! While you’re chewing, the food releases chemicals that travel up your nose and trigger olfactory receptors which also send nerve impulses to the brain to help you interpret the true flavor of what you’re eating. With this information, explain why a cold or allergies can diminish the flavor of your food.
