On Sat, 28 Feb 2009 07:45:03 -0700, Boulanger wrote:

> "sf" > wrote in message
> ...
>> On Fri, 27 Feb 2009 23:01:52 GMT, "James Silverton"
>> > wrote:
>>
>>>OK, it seems to be becoming apparent that cilantro has a "odor" that
>>>some are genetically constrained to be unable to detect. Now I wonder
>>>how the soapy taste arises?
>>
>> genetics
>>
> Isn't it also a matter of genetics wrt ones urine after eating asparagus? I
> read somewhere that it's genetics don't determine whether or not the urine
> stinks but the ability to smell that particular odour.

as i recall, it's both. there are individuals whose urine don't stink (so
to speak) but can smell the asparagus taint produced by others:

The good news is that asparagus does not affect everyone. Studies conducted
on the "asparagus urine" phenomenon (aren't you glad you didn't volunteer!)
indicate that roughly 40 to 50 percent of those tested developed the
distinctive odor. Surprisingly enough, there is also a segment of the
population who cannot smell the sulphurous fumes of asparagus-laced urine.
It is believed that both the generation of the odoriferous urine and the
ability to smell it are based on genetics. Only those with a certain gene
can break down the chemicals inside the asparagus into their smelly
components, and only those with the proper gene can smell the results of
that chemical breakdown.

<http://www.wisegeek.com/why-does-asp...mell-funny.htm

your pal,
blake