Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which taste is NOT picked up by taste buds on the tongue?

1. Sweet

2. Savory

3. Sour

4. Bitter

The correct answer is: Savory

The choice that states "savory" is not picked up by taste buds on the tongue is often misunderstood. In fact, the taste that is commonly associated with savory is umami, which is recognized by taste receptors located on the tongue. Taste buds on the tongue are primarily responsible for detecting five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Sweetness is identified through specific receptors that respond to sugars and certain other substances. Sourness is detected by receptors that sense acidity, while bitter taste receptors bind to compounds that can be harmful, serving as a protective mechanism. Umami, the savory flavor, plays an important role in detecting protein-rich foods and is distinct from the other four basic tastes. Therefore, "savory" as a general term is often intertwined with umami, and while traditional classifications may omit it, umami itself is indeed recognized by taste buds. The common misconception regarding savory lies in its classification rather than the actual capability of taste buds to perceive it. Understanding these distinctions is key to mastering the material on taste perception for the nursing entrance exam.