Why Do Some People Hate Cilantro?

Many People Have Strong Feelings When It Comes to Cilantro. Some Wouldn’t Dream of Putting out a Taco Tuesday Spread Without It, While Others Assiduously Avoid It. Ever Made Salsa for a Party and Left out the Cilantro at the Request of a Guest? Don’t Blame Them — They Can’t Help It. Hating Cilantro Is Primarily the Result of Genetics, Culture, and Environmental Factors.

Why Does Cilantro Taste Like Soap?

According to a Study Done by Genetics Firm 23 and Me, Certain People Think Cilantro Tastes Like Soap. the Soapy Taste Comes from an Olfactory Gene. the Gene Is Called Or6A2, and It’s Linked to Aldehyde Detection. Aldehydes Are Chemical Components Found in Soap and Responsible for the Smell — and Taste — of Cilantro.

Here's Why Some People Hate Cilantro

By Sarah Jenkins

• Oct 8, 2026 • 3 min read

Direct Answer • Key Takeaway

If You Hate Cilantro, It’s Not Your Fault. on the Other Hand, If You Love Cilantro, That’s Not Your Fault, Either. Plenty of People Can’t Stand This Popular Leafy Herb, and Whichever Camp You’re In, Chances Are, Your Mom and Dad Feel the Same Way You Do. That’s Because Hating —or Loving — Cilantro All Comes Down to Your Genes.

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.

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