Smell the Label: Odors Influence Label Perception and Their Neural Processing

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1159-24.2024
• Publication Date: 2025-02-24T18:50:19Z
• Authors: Doris Schicker; Putu A. Khorisantono; Qëndresa Rramani ...; Shirley X. L. Lim; Elodie Saruco; Burkhard Pleger; Johannes Schultz; Kathrin Ohla; Jessica Freiherr
• Keywords: Orbitofrontal cortex; Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex; Piriform cortex

Providing nutrition or health labels on product packaging can be an effective strategy to promote a conscious and healthier diet. However, such also have the potential counterproductive by creating obstructive expectations about flavor of food influencing odor perception. Conversely, olfaction could significantly influence label perception, whereby negative mitigated pleasant odors. This study explored neural processing interplay between odors using fMRI in 63 participants either sex, whom we presented beverage with different nutrition-related statements without congruent odor. On behavioral level, products for which were together general perceived as more positive than same Neuroimaging results revealed that added altered activity brain regions associated well decision-making, higher activations right amygdala/piriform cortex (Amy/pirC) orbitofrontal cortex. The presentation induced pattern-based encoding dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, left ventral striatum/nucleus accumbens, Amy/pirC when accounting differences. suggests effects both level may offer possibility compensating associations. detailed mechanisms statement interactions within relevant areas should further investigated, especially evoke expectations. Significance Overweight obesity, pose significant risks, addressed nutritional labeling help consumers make informed dietary choices. create including smell product. shows incorporating olfactory stimuli enhance perception shown responses alter key involved decision-making. modify counteract Our demonstrates importance multisensory integration provides valuable foundation developing strategies eating behavior.