Why Cilantro Tastes Like Soap to Some People

Cilantro is one of those herbs that people either can’t get enough of or can’t stand to be near. Used around the world in everything from fresh salsas to spicy curries and tangy chutneys, cilantro (also called coriander in some countries) brings a burst of green, citrusy flavor to many dishes. 

But, if you’ve ever taken a bite of guacamole and thought, “Did someone wash this in dish soap?” you’re not alone.

That soapy taste isn’t in your head. For some people, cilantro doesn’t taste fresh or bright at all. Instead, it triggers a strong, bitter reaction that many describe as similar to biting into a bar of soap. And the reason may all come down to your genes.

Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap to Some People? The Answer is in Your DNA

If cilantro tastes like soap to you, you might carry a specific genetic variation that changes how you experience its flavor. This variation is found in the OR6A2 gene, which affects your sense of smell, especially when it comes to certain aldehydes (the naturally occurring chemical compounds in cilantro).

Aldehydes are also found in soaps and cleaning products, which is where the connection comes in. For people with this variation, the aldehydes in cilantro trigger a strong sensory reaction that resembles the taste and smell of soap. 

So, it’s not just a preference or picky eating; it’s science. This cilantro soap gene has been linked to a higher likelihood of cilantro aversion, meaning your DNA may be the real culprit behind your distaste.

How Common Is Cilantro Aversion?

Cilantro aversion isn’t universal, but it’s not exactly rare either. Studies suggest that anywhere from 3% to 21% of the population experiences this soap-like reaction to cilantro, depending on their genetic background. It’s more commonly reported in certain groups, particularly among people of European descent.

That said, many cultures, especially those in Latin America, South Asia, and the Middle East, incorporate cilantro into daily cooking, and it’s often a beloved ingredient. 

This may explain why people who grow up eating cilantro from a young age, even if they have the gene variant, are sometimes able to tolerate or even enjoy it over time.

Nutritional Benefits of Cilantro

If you’re on team cilantro, you’re in luck. This herb doesn’t just add flavor to your food, it brings along some solid nutritional perks, too. Cilantro is packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate (also known as vitamin B9), all of which play a role in heart health and immune support.

It also contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, some of the same ones you’ll find in electrolyte drinks. These nutrients help support hydration, muscle function, and overall wellness. Even in small amounts, cilantro can give your diet a fresh, healthful boost.

Can You Train Your Taste Buds to Like Cilantro?

If cilantro has always tasted like soap to you, you might be wondering if there’s any hope. While there’s no guaranteed fix, some people do report overcoming their aversion over time. 

Repeated exposure in small doses, especially when cilantro is mixed into flavorful dishes, may help tone down the intensity of that soapy flavor.

Chopping cilantro finely or blending it into sauces can also reduce the impact of the aldehydes, making the herb less pungent. 

Some even suggest pairing it with ingredients like lime juice or garlic to help balance the flavor. While it may never become your favorite herb, you might find ways to tolerate it or even enjoy it in certain dishes.

You’re Not Alone in the Cilantro Divide

Whether you’re a cilantro lover or someone who avoids it at all costs, you’re part of a long-running culinary debate. Thanks to the OR6A2 gene and the way our bodies respond to flavor compounds, the cilantro soap taste isn’t just about preference. It’s a fascinating example of how DNA can shape our eating experience.

The good news is, if cilantro doesn’t work for you, there are plenty of other herbs that can fill its place. You can try fresh parsley, mint, basil, or dill to add brightness to your meals without triggering that telltale bitterness.

It’s in Your DNA (And That’s Okay)

If cilantro tastes like soap to you, there’s no need to feel bad about it. You’re not being picky, and you’re definitely not alone. The cilantro soap gene gives us a glimpse into how deeply personal and genetically influenced our food experiences can be. Whether you love cilantro or leave it on the plate, your taste buds are just doing what they were built to do.