Studies on the frequency of the taste-blindness for some substances among the Japanese people

Abstract

1. The author studied on the individual differences in senses of taste for some substances with special reference to the frequency of the taste-blindness among the Japanese people.2. Sodium Benzoate (C6H5COONa) gives some kind of a taste to the majority of people (about 75%) and the frequency of the taste-blindness is about 2.8% in the male and 1.16% in the female, and the frequency of the bittler shows 12.56% in the male while 11.82% in the female.3. A. N. T. U. (C6H5NHCSNH2) gives a strong bittertaste to people (about 78%) and the frequency of its taste-blindness is about 6.8% in the male and 6.6% in the female. The ability thus shows a distinct sexual difference and also considerably according to the age.4. Mannose (C6H12O6) gives sweet taste and a sweet and bit taste and the frequency of the taste-blindness shows about 1.7% in the male while 0.8% in the female.The above results show the individual differences in senses of taste given substances is dne to the racial difference in the frequency of the gene.In conclusion the author wishes to express his thanks to Mr. C. Nakatani and Mr. Y. Shiono who kindly sent materials for his use.