"Mathew Kagis" > wrote in message
news:vZumc.27014$U75.14875@edtnps89...
>
> "Vino" > wrote in message
> > What is the chemical that is formed by the metabolism of some
> > component of asparagus that one detects by smell while engaging in
a
> > perfectly natural act several hours after eating that food? Is it
> > related to any other chemical compound?
>
> Just heard something on CBC Radio on Asparagus.... According to
them, the
> chemical which causes the raunchy smell when answering the call of
nature,
> is one very much on topic for this group.... Mercaptin. who knew?
>
> Cheers
> Mathew
>
There are number of mercaptans, very similar to alcohols in formula
with oxygen replaced by sulfur. A large number, especially of the
simpler ones, are pretty foul smelling but not all: furfuryl mercaptan
is reputed to a large component of the smell of coffee.


--
James V. Silverton
Potomac, Maryland, USA