Britain’s Best Buds - New York Bakery Searches For Bagel Taste Talent - New research out today reveals that people living in London have the most discerning taste buds in Britain, followed by Birmingham and Newcastle. We all know that curries are hot news in the Midlands and the Cornish are partial to a pasty, but why? The study by bagel experts, New York Bakery Co who worked with UK Taste Psychologists, reveals that taste is influenced by social and cultural connections as well as genetics giving us a nation of “regional tasters”. The research reveals that London’s multi-cultural flavours; the spicy bite of Balti in Birmingham and the sharp tang of Newcastle’s Brown Ale all have an effect on our taste-testing tongues. The combination of textures, flavours, spices and variety of the regions’ foods helps separate discerning buds from the rest. Britain’s Best Buds: 1. London 2. Birmingham 3. Newcastle 4. Cardiff & Swansea 5. Manchester 6. Glasgow & Edinburgh In response to the regional findings, the New York Bakery Co has launched a UK-wide search for the ultimate taste tester – starting with the capital of taste, London. The Brit with the best buds will becomeHead of Taste for the bagel brand. The new recruit will need to be able to detect subtle variations in flavour and texture, as they munch through hundreds of bagels a week. The position will require the lucky candidate to advise the board following a research trip to the Big Apple – the home of bagels – providing a taste of New York and truly authentic recipe for each bagel. Greg Tucker, Taste Psychologist, comments: “Despite common stereotypes, our research shows that there are no genetic differences between the sexes with regards to the sense of taste. In fact, where you were brought up and live have the biggest impact on taste due the unique social and cultural experiences of that region. Londoners have an eclectic and varied palate whilst people from Birmingham are driven by spice and the Welsh look for lively and invigorating tastes. I look forward to seeing which region our top three bagel tester finalists come from!” The research revealed that taste is also influenced by the brain’s ability to process subtle changes in flavour which gives us that emotional connection to food. Victoria Willis, Head of Marketing of New York Bakery Co, comments: “We are really looking forward to finding the ultimate bagel taster as we are dedicated to bringing the true taste of New York to UK bagel-fans. The winning flavour maestro will be flown to the Big Apple, to sample NYC’s newest bagelries’, so they can advise us on perfecting the authenticity of our New York recipe and the recipes for future generations to come. It is a big job, but I believe that Britain’s Best Buds can help us and add to our existing research from NYC.” No specific experience is required and any applicant who thinks they have taste talent should apply at www.facebook/newyorkbakery by summarising why they love New York and bagels (in 30 words). The final three applicants will be put through the ultimate bagel taste test by the New York Bakery Co and Taste Psychologist Greg Tucker to help separate the bestfrom the bland. Entries need to be in by Monday 13th June. The winner will be notified on Thursday 30th June and announced on Monday 4th July.
