World Taste & Smell Day: A Celebration of Our Senses
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Chapter 1: The Importance of Taste and Smell
September 14 is designated as World Taste & Smell Day, an occasion dedicated to recognizing and valuing our often overlooked senses of taste and smell. The loss of these senses during the Covid-19 pandemic has made us acutely aware of the joy derived from the aroma of fresh bread, the flavors of our favorite dishes, and the scents associated with loved ones and nature. This experience has fostered a deeper appreciation for these senses. In light of this, the World Taste and Smell Association was established to enhance public understanding of these critical senses.
World Taste and Smell Association’s theme for 2022 is "The Wonders of Taste & Smell." This year, there are 15 million compelling reasons to observe this day. According to Valentina Parma, Assistant Director of the Monell Chemical Senses Center and consultant for the association, “We anticipate that 15 million individuals will experience long-term loss of taste and/or smell due to Covid-19.” This loss significantly affects people's overall health, safety, and enjoyment of life. Even with the pandemic now two and a half years in the rearview, the influence of taste and smell impairments on individuals remains largely underestimated.
“The World Taste and Smell Association is cultivating a supportive community for the millions grappling with long-lasting taste and smell issues, along with the innovators and researchers in this field. By dedicating a day to celebrate the remarkable aspects of taste and smell, we aim to enhance our appreciation for these deeply personal and influential senses,” says Stephanie Feuer, the organization’s leader, who has faced her own challenges with smell and taste since 2017.
Section 1.1: Local Events and Activities
For World Taste & Smell Day 2022, a variety of local events are planned. Activities range from patient-focused clinics in China and the Philippines to a unique scent-free cocktail at Castalia Cocktails in Detroit, as well as a perfumery workshop at the Institute of Art & Olfaction in Los Angeles. In New York City, The Salon Project, Perfumarie, and EXQ Cafe in Equinox Rockefeller Center will host an immersive sensory celebration, featuring a cocktail and fragrance pairing experience led by Mindy Yang. Tickets for this tax-deductible event can be purchased or donations made here. A complete list of events and activities is available here.
Subsection 1.1.1: Join the Virtual Event
Everyone is welcome to participate in a virtual event titled "The Wonders of Taste & Smell Webcast" on September 14 at noon (EST), which is free with prior registration available here.
The panel will feature:
- Mandy Aftel, Natural Essence Expert, Writer, and Perfume Historian [USA]
- Jeanette Andrews, Scent Illusionist [USA]
- Dr. Oghogho Braimah, Award-winning ENT & Neck Surgeon [Nigeria]
- Dr. Joel Mainland, Scientist and Digital Olfaction Pioneer [USA]
- Dr. Barry Smith, Philosopher and Sensory Expert [UK]
- Dr. Tian Yu, Director of Sensory, Aigora [USA]
The webcast will kick off with an overview of the World Taste & Smell Association’s Perceived Value Survey, which aims to assess how individuals value their sense of taste and smell. This survey will be made available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, French, Arabic, and Italian, and was developed by professors Rachel S. Herz and Martha R. Bajec.
Section 1.2: Sponsors and Mission
World Taste & Smell Day is supported by Takasago, The Salon Project, EQX Cafe, Perfumerie, and HCD Research. The day’s mission is to honor how taste and smell enrich our lives, deepen our understanding of these essential senses, and foster a community dedicated to exploration and innovation.
For further details, visit www.tasteandsmell.world or reach out to Stephanie Feuer of the World Taste & Smell Association.