2006-07-05 08:52:37 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
The odor of urine after eating asparagus is due to the volatile sulfur-containing compound methanethiol. A study of 800 volunteers in 1987 reported that 43% produced a smell similar to rotten or boiling cabbage after eating asparagus.
It is also interesting to note that just because you don't smell anything foul in your urine after eating asparagus does not mean your urine doesn't stink. There are polymorphisms (variations in a trait) in the human population for the ability to smell that compound. Some people are not able to detect it while others are hypersensitive and are able to smell the compound even when diluted.
2006-07-05 19:30:28 · answer #1 · answered by Slackenerny 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know the answer but I do know that it can really ruin an otherwise great date.
2006-07-05 08:54:49 · answer #2 · answered by noneyabusiness 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why do u sniff it? must be a nice topic for a dinner date huh?
2006-07-05 08:55:40 · answer #3 · answered by da big red juggalo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because it tastes bitter.
2006-07-05 08:55:55 · answer #4 · answered by Mister_fin 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i hate asparagus, i didnt know it did that.
2006-07-05 09:03:39 · answer #5 · answered by Rock N Roll Saved My Soul 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋