Did You Know Umami Taste Is Present in the Vegetarian Diet? | Press

Discover the main umami foods on the menu and how they help in the pursuit of health and quality of life.

São Paulo, May 2017 – In recent times, the vegetarian diet has been on the rise and consists of eating plant-based foods while leaving out any type of meat. Present in many tasty foods, umami—one of the five basic tastes of the human palate—can also be found in this type of eating pattern, and its benefits align with vegetarian ideals.

According to Mariana Rosa, nutritionist at the Umami Committee, vegetarianism can be adopted for various reasons. “The main one is respect for animal life. But there are also motivations related to health, the environment, aesthetics, and economics.” And it’s in the health aspect that umami taste becomes a great ally for followers of the diet. “Umami can be beneficial for better food acceptance, aiding protein digestion, maintaining oral hygiene, and, of course, adding a delicious touch to preparations,” the specialist notes.

Many umami foods are part of the vegetarian diet, such as tomato, peas, corn, soy and its derivatives, broccoli, seaweeds, mushrooms, green tea, among others. “Shimeji and shiitake mushrooms, which are examples of umami foods, are sources of protein, low in calories, and rich in vitamin B12,” Mariana points out. “For a practical experience, pay attention to the main characteristics of this taste. When we put an umami food in the mouth, we can feel an increase in salivation and a lingering taste for a few minutes. Because of this, swallowing and the perception of all flavors also improve,” she concludes.

UMAMI

It is the fifth basic taste of the human palate, discovered in 1908 by Japanese scientist Kikunae Ikeda. It was scientifically recognized in 2000, when researchers at the University of Miami confirmed the existence of specific receptors for this taste on the taste buds. The amino acid glutamic acid and the nucleotides inosinate and guanylate are the main umami substances. The two main characteristics of umami are increased salivation and a lingering taste for a few minutes after eating. To learn more, visit portalumami.com.br and follow on social media at facebook.com/GostoUmami/ and instagram.com/ogostoumami.