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Prenatal Kale, Carrot Supplements Influence Toddler Smell Preferences

5/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pregnant women took kale or carrot powder capsules and their children later preferred the exposed vegetable’s smell.
Prof. Nadja Reissland of Durham University led the study testing fetal odor responses and followed twelve children to age three.
Dr. Beyza Ustun-Elayan of Cambridge said maternal diet flavors can shape children’s preferences.
Dr. Benoist Schaal of the CNRS noted fetuses sense maternal food flavors and urged further research.

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Story summary

Pregnant women took kale or carrot powder capsules and their children later preferred the exposed vegetable’s smell.
Prof. Nadja Reissland of Durham University led the study testing fetal odor responses and followed twelve children to age three.
Dr. Beyza Ustun-Elayan of Cambridge said maternal diet flavors can shape children’s preferences.
Dr. Benoist Schaal of the CNRS noted fetuses sense maternal food flavors and urged further research.