A new science-based demonstration has confirmed that bakes made by our loved ones really do taste better – and it’s all down to one secret ingredient
Recent research has shown that a whopping nine out of ten Brits believe food tastes better when it’s whipped up by someone they love. Partners topped the list of our favourite chefs, closely followed by our mums and grandmas. And according to the research, most people believe this is because our loved ones know exactly what we like, and their cooking can help evoke happy memories.
Building on these beliefs, a new scientific experiment has now confirmed that treats baked by our nearest and dearest really do taste better. And while those other aspects might be true, it all comes down to one secret ingredient.
The Taste Test, spearheaded by experimental scientist Charles Spence from the University of Oxford, in collaboration with Lurpak, discovered that every participant preferred the bake made by their loved one over one crafted by a professional pastry chef who has experience working in some of London’s top hotels, including The Savoy.
The experiment used heart rate monitors, micro facial expression analysis, and questionnaires to gauge the emotional reactions of the volunteers in real time.
Professor Charles Spence, a renowned expert in the science of taste and its impact on our memories and experiences, said: “It was great to see the tasters react so instantly to the tastes of the loved ones’ bakes, with their heart rates spiking and smiles of recognition appearing straightaway.”
He added: “This demonstration perfectly illustrates what the science shows, namely that love is the secret ingredient in baking.”
It seems the nation’s passion for baking together runs deep, with three quarters confessing they have cherished memories of baking with family members during their childhood – with cupcakes, cookies, scones and brownies being the most nostalgic bakes.
According to the research, baking together also enhances the relationship, as over a third say the best part is seeing the joy on someone’s face when they share something they’ve baked. Meanwhile two in five people feel closer when baking together, and a quarter feel truly cared for when loved ones bake for them.
And this tradition shows no signs of slowing down, with more than two thirds of adults passing on the tradition and spending quality time baking with their own children whenever possible.
Professor Spence continued: “What’s striking to me is how clearly the results showed how taste is intrinsically linked to memory, emotion and, ultimately, feelings of joy and love.”
Catriona Mantle, Marketing Director at Lurpak, who commissioned the test added: “Food lovers know there’s real joy in baking for someone you love. Whether it’s mum’s birthday cake, your husband’s cookies, or grandad’s scones, those simple bakes just taste better.
“Our test proves what many of us have felt – and tasted – that love really is the secret ingredient in baking. And we know that it’s more than just about good food – it’s the care, the connections and the moments shared that make every bake taste better. That’s what Lurpak is all about.”