The World Taste & Smell Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is committed to enhancing the appreciation of our senses of taste and smell and their profound impact on overall well-being, mental health, safety, and social connectivity.
We strive to celebrate the intersection of taste and smell, sensory innovations, and raise awareness and foster empathy for individuals experiencing loss of taste and smell or distressing distortions of these senses.
Life can lose its vibrancy and depth for those affected by conditions such as Long COVID, injuries, chemical exposure, genetic factors, or the natural aging process. Beyond personal struggles, taste and smell disorders can also have economic implications, affecting businesses through revenue losses, damaged brand reputation, or the loss of livelihoods for professionals reliant on their acute sensory abilities.
WTSA is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals and communities by providing valuable resources, conducting research, and hosting events and programs. These initiatives include the annual celebration of Taste & Smell Day (September 14), collaborative partnerships with scientists, and support for innovators in sensory science, wellness, and taste and smell. As leaders in the field, we are at the forefront of advocacy and innovation, driving progress in sensory well-being and improving quality of life.
Charting the Path to Sensory Wellness: Our Mission
Meet the Esteemed Founding Board Members of the World Taste & Smell Association as They Articulate Their Inspiring Vision and Unwavering Mission to Transform the Landscape of Sensory Perception and Quality of Life.
Contribute to Our Work:
The World Taste & Smell Association is continuously seeking volunteers, sponsors, and partners to collaborate with us for local, digital, and regional events as we aim to further our mission. We invite you to connect with us and discover the numerous opportunities available for your involvement. Together, we can make a difference!
Exploring the Intersection of
Taste and Smell: #DeliciousForAll
Flavor encompasses the sensory experiences of taste, smell, and other factors like texture and temperature. Together, they play integral roles in our daily experiences, yet our understanding remains limited.
The World Taste & Smell Association, in collaboration with our Coalition of Culinary Experts (CCE), aims to address this gap through initiatives like the #DeliciousForAll Culinary Challenge. By exploring the complexities of taste, smell, and flavor, we seek to broaden our knowledge and create meaningful conversations about these fundamental aspects of human perception and, foster innovation, empathy, and promote more thoughtful and pleasurable dining experiences.
Available On-Demand:
When the Flavor Fades: Culinary Professionals on Smell and Taste Loss
Smell Can Change the World: Health, Technology, and the Future
Join World Taste & Small Association Advisor Dr. Rachel Herz as she explains how your sense of smell is directly tied to your emotional and physical health, how to keep it strong, and how scent can change your life now and in the future.
Dr. Herz is a leading expert on the psychological science of smell. Her published books include "Why You Eat What You Eat", "The Scent of Desire” and "That’s Disgusting". She’s written numerous research papers and articles and has been a guest on shows including "On Point" and "Science Friday". Dr. Herz is an adjunct faculty member at Brown University and Boston College and she advises many companies about enhancing consumer experiences.