Variability in olfactory reactivity in 7-8 month-old infants

To determine the origin of early food preference variability, an Observatory of Food Preference in Infants and Children (Opaline) was set up. One of its objectives is to relate hedonic reaction to odours to previous exposures (via amniotic fluid and/or breast milk) and to understand the role of hedonic reaction to odours on food rejections or preferences. To answer this question, we developed an instrument to measure and to compare olfactory reactivity in 7-8 month-old infants.

Hedonic reactivity to food odours in infants: Longitudinal approach from 6 to 12 months

Relationship between olfactory reactivity and food rejections in infants

N° 261; The role of hedonic reactions to odours on determining rejections of foods in infants is still debated. To answer this question, the first requirement is to have an instrument to test infants’ olfactory reactivity. Indeed, except in neonates, there is a lack of validated method. This study presents results of a new method designed to assess olfactory reactivity of 7- to 8-month-old infants. This method is based on the observation of infants’ reactions while they explored different rattles. The rattles were visually identical but differed in their odours (neutral or with a food odour). Two sequences of 6 rattles were presented to each infant. Eight odorants were used. Four odorants w…

Relationship between olfactory reactivity and food rejections in infant