ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

Which of the following is one of the five categories of taste in food that corresponds to the flavor of glutamates?

1. Sweetness

2. Saltiness

3. Umami

4. Sourness

The correct answer is: Umami

Umami is recognized as the category of taste that corresponds specifically to the flavor of glutamates. This taste sensation is often described as savory or pleasant, and it is typically found in foods rich in amino acids, particularly glutamate. Common sources of umami include foods like tomatoes, cheeses, mushrooms, and fermented products such as soy sauce. Umami plays a significant role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of dishes and is considered one of the fundamental tastes, alongside sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and bitterness. Understanding umami helps nutritionists and culinary professionals create and balance flavors effectively in cooking and meal planning.