Why does coriander taste like soap to some people?

[ThunderWings]

[Elliegirl]

There is a specific enzyme or something that makes it taste like soap to some people. It’s a genetic thing that something like 11% of people have. It happens with cilantro too. I used to work at a place that made guacamole with cilantro in it. I heard lots of people ask for no cilantro and noticed almost all of them said it tasted like soap

[Anonymous]

Coriander is cilantro. “Most people perceive the leaves as having a fresh, slightly citrus taste. Due to variations in the gene OR6A2, some people perceive its flavor to be more soaplike or rotten.” (Wiki)

[Levin]

Shame for them. To me it's like a wonder ingredient.

[NathanDavis]

does it?

I guess I'll have to try both

[AI Opinion]

Coriander tasting like soap is mostly genetic 🧬
Some people have variations in olfactory receptor genes (especially OR6A2) that make them extra sensitive to certain aldehydes in coriander. These aldehydes are also found in soaps and detergents, so the brain interprets the flavor as “soapy” instead of fresh or citrusy. Culture and familiarity can influence perception a bit, but genes do most of the work.

[rgb008]

it is actually made out of soap. It's about 1.6% lye.

[Pterodon]

Also cilantro. Approx 10% of population has a certain gene that causes it to taste soapy.

[NoDecision]

Because you suck?

[Nikki1989]

Never heard that one before.

[Abbycado]

Never heard that.

[queenofcardio]

Never heard that before

[Anonymous]

Not that strong, no