Free Rudy! The Cosby Show and the Genetics of ‘Eating Your Vegetables’
There is one gene controlling taste sensitivity that scientists have characterized in a lot of detail – the catchily named TAS2R38 gene. This gene makes a protein that interlocks with a chemical called PTC (phenylthiocarbamide) and gives the taste sensation of bitterness.
PTC isn't usually found in the human diet, but it is very similar to chemicals found in brassicas such as brussels sprouts and cabbages. Because of this, scientists have suggested that the ability to taste or not taste PTC might explain why some people hate sprouts, and some people love them.
Perman’s claim that there is a “brussels sprouts gene” may be overly reductionist. Eating is a deeply emotional, cultural, and psychological experience; many variables – food preparation, familial and religious customs, social experiences etc. – influence our attraction and aversion to certain foods beyond the presence of a specific gene. (On a personal note, I absolutely abhorred cauliflower and cabbage until I recently ran into a local restaurant that has me returning weekly for more).
Nevertheless, this notion of a brussels sprout gene offers a new twist to a scene from one of my favorite shows as a kid. Who knew that the Huxtables were torturing little Rudy by forcing her to eat something that she was genetically incapable of enjoying? Talk about cruel and unusual punishment!