The Question: Does early exposure to salty foods result in a later preference for salty foods?  

The Study: Researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, PA evaluated the responses of 61 infants to various concentrations of salt water. The results of the testing, performed at ages two and six months, were correlated with the infants’ exposure to starchy foods, a significant source of sodium. The control group was also tested and their reactions were correlated to their exposure to fruits. A 36-48-month follow-up study was done on 26 infants.  

The Results: The infants exposed to starchy foods showed a greater preference for the salt water than the infants not fed those foods. In the follow-up study, children who, as infants, demonstrated a preference for salt water continued to prefer salty foods as toddlers.  

Comment: Taste preferences tend to develop early and may have a lifelong impact on health. High salt intake appears to be associated with hypertension and other illnesses. Lessening starchy foods in infant diets may affect adult food preferences.  

Read More: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 01/12