Which flavors cannot be detected by odor?

The detection of flavors primarily involves the sense of taste, which is perceived through the taste buds on the tongue. There are five basic taste sensations recognized: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami (savory). Among these, bitter and salty flavors cannot be detected by the sense of smell, as they are primarily tasted through the taste buds.

Bitter flavors are typically associated with compounds that can signal toxicity, making the detection of these flavors crucial for survival. They are specifically recognized by specialized taste receptors. Salty flavors derive from the presence of sodium ions, which are also detected by the tongue.

In contrast, other flavor combinations such as sweet and sour or spicy and savory may have components that can be detected by olfactory receptors, further contributing to the overall flavor profile of food. For example, the aroma of spices can enhance the perceived spiciness, while sweetness might be complemented by fruity or floral odors.

Thus, the ability of the human palate to recognize bitter and salty flavors is distinctly tied to taste rather than odor, making this the correct choice in identifying flavors that cannot be detected by smell alone.