Despite Personal Preference for Good Smells Molecular Structure Matters
The Karolinska Institute conducted a study to determine whether despite personal preference for good smells molecular structure matters. They found that both the molecular structure of an odor and the personal preference matter when it comes to experiencing smell. We associate our memories to good and bad smells with certain experiences we had in the past. Most people associate the scent of vanilla or peaches as a pleasant experience. On the other hand, isovaleric acid, which is contained in some cheeses, apple juice, soy milk and stinky feet is perceived by most as a negative experience. Accumulating smell experiences is a lifelong process. In animals scents can be life-saving, in humans it is mostly to avert negative experiences or to augment a pleasant one.