An Unbiased Palate

And that's why mint tastes like soap or shampoo to people with receptor OR6A4.

Because it's a single nucleotide polymorphism gene, or an SNP gene.

Fascinating. So, I guess it can't be cured?

Liking the taste of mint is not a disease. Why try to fix it?

That's right! You make it sound like it's a flaw or something. That's so mean!

We're being serious! What if there's something wrong with your nose or tongue?

Think of how it could interfere with your daily life. That's how disorders are formed.

How bad could it be?

It all began 30 years ago...

That's too far back! What are you even talking about?!

The Prefect Team locked Izumi up yesterday for making and selling mint juice.

Mint juice...? I've never heard of anything like that.

It'd be weird to drink, sure, but was it really worth arresting her for?

Exactly! It's all one big conspiracy. Stop the mint hate!

She said it was mint juice, but it was actually toothpaste mixed with water. ☆

Oh, now I get it.

...?!

Iori was saying something about tainted food when she took her in.

But it tastes just like mint juice. Plus, it's good for your teeth...and cheap.

Who would want it?! You can't peddle something like that just because you like it!

Anyway, Izumi likes mint because she doesn't have the receptor.

Otherwise, she would think it tastes like shampoo or soap.

It's a congenital problem, so nothing will change it.

That's right. I wouldn't eat shampoo or soap.

I just eat mint because I like it!

Hmm. I guess we have no choice.

That's right.

Well, since you're all here, why don't we check and see who has the receptor?

They say the best way to accept others is to better understand yourself.

Oh, my! That sounds like fun! ☆

You mean we can find out whether we think mint tastes like shampoo?

It's also relevant to my pursuit of the ultimate taste. My interest is piqued.

Now, say, "Aaah..." This won't take long.

Here are the results. First off, Akari has no receptor.

Oh, really? Then, am I simply picky for not liking mint?

It wouldn't hurt to try it again with an open mind.

Next up, Haruna. She does have the receptor.

Mint must taste like shampoo or soap to you, Haruna.

I expected this. I treat all flavors equally, but even I struggle with mint.

To think it was due to my DNA. Still, that is no excuse to discriminate.

Junko also lacks the receptor.

I like pretty much anything, including mint.

Next is Izumi.

Isn't it already obvious that Izumi doesn't have the receptor? She loves mint so much.

Yeah! Mint is delicious! I have no idea why people hate it.

This says Izumi...does have the receptor.

...?!

Wh-What?!

Oh, my. So mint tastes like shampoo or soap to Izumi?

Huh?

No way! You mean that's what shampoo tastes like?

You didn't know?! W-Wait, so you eat mint even though it tastes like shampoo?!

Taste is subjective so...there could be people out there that enjoy how shampoo tastes.

I suppose... I mean, there has to be someone...right?

Wh-What are you going on about?! It's totally unnatural!

Why would anyone eat something that tastes like soap or shampoo? That's so dumb!

Wow... So that's what shampoo tasted like all along?

(smile) Does this mean I can eat shampoo now?

DON'T YOU DARE!