Olfactory Performance in Culinary Arts Students

Launched by LEIGH SOWERBY · Sep 27, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how cooking and the smells associated with it can help improve the sense of smell in people who have experienced a loss of smell, particularly after COVID-19. The researchers want to see if culinary training can be as effective, or even more effective, than traditional olfactory training (OT), which is a therapy that involves smelling specific scents repeatedly over several weeks. The study will involve students from a culinary arts program at Fanshawe College, who will be tested for their sense of smell, along with students from a different program for comparison.

To participate, you need to be at least 18 years old, enrolled in one of these programs, and able to read and write in English. You also need to be able to give your consent to be part of the study. However, if you have a history of complete loss of smell (anosmia) or chronic sinus issues, you won’t be eligible. If you join, you can expect to take part in olfactory tests and potentially benefit from the smells encountered during cooking, which may be more relatable and enjoyable than traditional scent training. Overall, this trial aims to explore a new approach to help those struggling with their sense of smell.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • age 18 years or older
• • enrolled in an introductory training program at Fanshawe collage (Culinary arts or Information Technology)
• • capable of providing informed written consent
• • capable of reading and writing in English
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Participants with a history of anosmia, and chronic sinus disease.