Sensory Changes
What happens to your tongue’s sensitivity at high altitudes?
The tongue becomes less sensitive to different flavors.
What two environmental factors change in an airplane cabin?
Lower humidity and lower air pressure.
What type of food tastes bland on a plane due to noise?
Sweet and salty food tastes bland due to noise.
What do airlines add to food to enhance taste?
Airlines add extra flavoring to compensate for taste loss.
Why did the author start with a fake flight announcement?
To be humorous and catch readers' interest.
Besides the tongue, what other organ affects taste in-flight?
The nose also affects taste because it gets blocked.
Special question: Name one of 10 the safest airlines in the world in 2024
What ingredient is used in airline meals because of its rich flavor?
Tomatoes are often used due to their strong umami flavor.
What device did British Airways provide to passengers to help with taste?
A nasal spray was given to help clear stuffy noses before meals.
What term does the passage use for food that remains tasty regardless of altitude?
"Savory ingredients" remain flavorful regardless of altitude.
Special Question: In 15 seconds, name all 5 senses.
Sense of
touch, smell, sight, hearing, and taste
What causes passengers’ noses to become blocked?
Dry cabin air makes the nose blocked and less sensitive.
Name one factor that makes food taste less sweet or salty on a plane.
Noise distraction reduces how sweet or salty food tastes.
What are two savory ingredients commonly used in airline meals?
Mushrooms and spinach are also used due to their umami taste.
in 15 seconds, name three airlines in Taiwan
Eva Air, China Airlines, Starlux
What role does the nose normally play in tasting food?
The nose helps distinguish flavors by detecting aroma.
Special question:
Name one of the 10 best airlines in the world in 2024.
According to the 2024 World Airline Awards by Skytrax, the Top 10 Airlines are:
Why do airlines prefer to use tomatoes in their meals?
Tomatoes have umami, which makes them taste good even in-flight.
Why do airlines not rely only on nasal sprays to fix taste issues?
Not all passengers use nasal sprays, so other methods are needed.
What effect does airplane noise have on the way food tastes?
Experiments have shown that loud airplane noise makes food taste less sweet or salty.
Why do our ears affect how much we enjoy food?
Noise can distract our sense of taste.
In 20 seconds, ASK a question about flying on an airplane.
Answers may vary.
How do chefs compensate for the taste loss on planes?
Chefs add stronger flavors like spices and umami-rich ingredients.
What are three solutions airlines have used to improve in-flight dining?
1. Nasal sprays, 2. Extra seasoning, 3. Savory ingredients.
What do you know about airplanes?
Answers may vary.