Taste buds are replaced regularly, which is why flavour perception can shift with age.

The longer version

Taste receptor cells sit in small clusters on the tongue and elsewhere in the mouth, and they are exposed to heat, rough food and constant moisture. That harsh setting means individual cells wear out quickly, so they are continually replaced from a pool of dividing cells nearby. Each new cell links up with a nerve fibre that carries its signal to the brain.

Because turnover is constant, the population shifts over the years, and the sensitivity to different tastes can drift as well. Children often perceive strong flavours more intensely than older adults do. Perception is also strongly shaped by smell, which is why a blocked nose makes food seem blander than usual.

Where this entry sits

These facts look at how the human body works in ordinary moments, from breathing and blinking to balance and sleep. They focus on anatomy, senses, and small reactions that happen constantly without any conscious effort. The full list sits on the Human Body page, where every entry is listed in order.