What immediate physical reaction results directly from the release of volatile ITCs when wasabi is crushed?
Answer
That sharp rush up the sinuses
The highly distinctive sensory experience associated with wasabi—the immediate, sharp rush felt moving upward through the nasal passages—is a direct physical manifestation of the volatile isothiocyanates (ITCs) being released into the air upon preparation, such as grating the rhizome. This acute physical reaction is what many consumers seek out when pairing wasabi with sushi or other dishes, as this fleeting heat signals the presence of these active, pungent chemical compounds.
Related Questions
What primary ingredient is commonly used, along with mustard and dye, to mimic genuine wasabi paste worldwide?What specific class of chemicals is recognized as the 'star players' in authentic wasabi's potential health profile?What specific anti-disease property is suggested to be exhibited by the Isothiocyanates (ITCs) found in wasabi?What immediate physical reaction results directly from the release of volatile ITCs when wasabi is crushed?What nutritional component, often present in moderate amounts in common horseradish paste, becomes a concern with high daily intake?What is the principal reason why consuming actual, genuine *Wasabia japonica* paste daily is considered both impractical and economically unfeasible?If someone relies on imitation paste daily, what constitutes the main nutritional difference compared to eating the genuine article regarding health benefits?Which cruciferous vegetables are suggested as an affordable and consistent source for obtaining the beneficial Isothiocyanates (ITCs)?What primary side effect is cited as a risk to the digestive tract from the high consumption of pungent compounds like those found in horseradish?What cognitive benefit for the brain might studies indicate is associated with consuming components derived from wasabi?When using common paste, what does observing the ingredient list to see starch and coloring before horseradish imply about daily consumption?