Bushra Griffith
It's a well-known fact that dirty or sweaty feet can smell like cheese, but have you ever wondered why this is the case? Interestingly, the same bacterium that is responsible for the smell of Limburger cheese, Brevibacterium epidermidis, is also found on human skin. This bacterium is specifically present on our feet, which are often confined to tight, sweaty shoes, creating the perfect environment for the bacteria to thrive and produce that distinct cheesy odour. While some may compare this scent to that of Limburger cheese, others have specifically likened it to Parmesan cheese, describing it as reminiscent of dirty socks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for the similarity in smell | The feet and Limburger cheese contain the same bacterium, Brevibacterium epidermidis, which is found on human skin |
| Practical Applications | Scientists can use the smell to build traps to monitor and exterminate mosquitoes that spread malaria |
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What You'll Learn
- Limburger cheese and foot odour share a similar smell due to a common bacterium
- Mosquitoes are attracted to the scent of both feet and Limburger cheese
- Parmesan cheese is often described as smelling like feet
- The smell of feet is caused by bacteria on the skin
- Foot odour can be influenced by factors such as footwear and hygiene
Limburger cheese and foot odour share a similar smell due to a common bacterium
While there is no direct evidence that dirty feet smell like parmesan cheese, Limburger cheese and foot odour share a similar smell due to a common bacterium. The biology prize at the Ig Nobel awards ceremony at Harvard University was awarded to Bart Knols of Wageningen Agricultural University in the Netherlands and his colleagues in Tanzania, Austria, and Italy. They discovered that the female of the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, is equally attracted to the smell of stinky feet and Limburger cheese.
Dr Knols's revelation came when he realised that Limburger cheese is cultured with Brevibacterium epidermidis, a bacterium found on human skin. This discovery has practical applications, as Dr Knols noted. Scientists can now use an organism that emits an odour alluring to mosquitoes to build traps that will monitor malaria infestation in mosquitoes, aiding in extermination efforts.
The work of Dr Knols and his colleagues has been recognised with an $8 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to continue their work to reduce the spread of malaria in Africa. This interesting connection between cheese and foot odour showcases the unique insights that can be gained by exploring seemingly unrelated topics.
While the connection between Limburger cheese and foot odour is intriguing, it is important to note that not all cheese smells are reminiscent of dirty feet. Parmesan cheese, for example, has been described by some as lacking flavour and resembling the smell of stinky feet. However, this is a matter of personal perception, and others may disagree with this assessment.
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Mosquitoes are attracted to the scent of both feet and Limburger cheese
It is true that mosquitoes are attracted to the scent of both feet and Limburger cheese. This is due to the presence of the bacterium Brevibacterium linens (also known as Brevibacterium epidermidis), which is found on human skin and is responsible for foot odour. This bacterium is also used to ferment certain types of cheese, including Limburger, Munster, Port-du-Salut, Raclette, Livarot, Pont l'Eveque, Wisconsin Brick, and Năsal. The compounds produced by Limburger cheese are similar to those found in human body odour, particularly foot odour, which can confuse mosquitoes. They are attracted to the scent and will attempt to feed, mistaking the cheese for human skin.
This phenomenon has been studied by scientists such as Bart Knols of Wageningen Agricultural University in the Netherlands and his colleagues in Tanzania, Austria, and Italy. Their research found that the female malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, is particularly attracted to the smell of both stinky feet and Limburger cheese. This discovery has important implications for monitoring and controlling malaria, as scientists can now use odour baits to trap and monitor malaria-infested mosquitoes, aiding in extermination efforts.
It is worth noting that while Limburger cheese alone may not effectively attract mosquitoes, when combined with carbon dioxide, it can synergistically increase trap attractiveness to mosquitoes. This was observed in a study where the combination of a worn sock and carbon dioxide-baited traps attracted significantly more mosquitoes than a sock alone.
In conclusion, the scent of both feet and Limburger cheese is alluring to certain species of mosquitoes due to the presence of similar compounds produced by the bacterium Brevibacterium linens. This knowledge has practical applications in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and can potentially save lives through improved monitoring and control methods.
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Parmesan cheese is often described as smelling like feet
The unique aroma of Parmesan cheese is primarily due to the presence of specific bacteria and fungi used in the cheese-making process. These microorganisms interact with the other ingredients, imparting a distinct smell and flavour to the cheese. Similarly, the bacteria and fungi present on the human body, particularly on the feet, can contribute to body odour when they interact with sweat and other substances.
In fact, scientific research has discovered a connection between foot odour and cheese. A study by Bart Knols of Wageningen Agricultural University and colleagues from various countries found that the female Anopheles gambiae mosquito, which is a vector for malaria, is attracted equally to the smell of stinky feet and Limburger cheese. This finding is attributed to the presence of the bacterium Brevibacterium epidermidis, which is used in culturing Limburger cheese and is also commonly found on human skin.
While the connection between cheese and feet odour may be intriguing, it is important to maintain proper hygiene to address any concerning levels of foot odour. Excessive foot odour could indicate bacterial or fungal issues, and various remedies, such as foot soaks, can help alleviate this problem.
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The smell of feet is caused by bacteria on the skin
The human skin is home to a diverse range of bacteria, which typically exist in a harmonious balance with their host. However, certain environmental factors, such as increased moisture or temperature, can disrupt this equilibrium, leading to an overgrowth of certain bacterial strains. This bacterial proliferation contributes to the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are responsible for the distinctive odour associated with dirty feet.
Similarly, the distinctive aroma of Parmesan cheese is also a product of bacterial activity. The process of making Parmesan involves the cultivation of specific bacteria, particularly those from the genus Brevibacterium, which are crucial in developing the cheese's flavour and aroma. These bacteria act upon the proteins and fats present in the cheese, breaking them down and releasing various compounds that contribute to its characteristic smell.
The bacterium Brevibacterium epidermidis, in particular, has been identified as a key player in both contexts. This bacterium is typically found on human skin and is known to contribute to body odour when present in excessive amounts. Interestingly, the same bacterium is also used in the production of certain cheeses, including Limburger cheese, which is renowned for its pungent aroma.
Understanding the bacterial basis of foot odour provides valuable insights into devising effective strategies to combat it. By targeting these specific bacteria and controlling their growth, whether through improved hygiene, the use of antibacterial agents, or other means, individuals can effectively manage and mitigate the intensity of foot odour. Additionally, this knowledge has broader implications, such as those highlighted by Dr Bart Knols' research, where the allure of stinky feet and Limburger cheese to mosquitoes is being leveraged to develop innovative traps for monitoring and controlling malaria-infested mosquitoes.
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Foot odour can be influenced by factors such as footwear and hygiene
The human foot is home to billions of bacteria and thousands of sweat glands, making it particularly susceptible to microbial infections. The combination of sweat and bacteria is the main cause of foot odour.
Footwear choices can significantly influence foot odour. Wearing shoes and socks traps sweat and bacteria, creating an environment that exacerbates foot odour. The bacteria multiply, feeding on the dead skin cells and oils on the feet. As the bacteria break down, they release a smelly odour. Wearing the same pair of shoes daily may not give them enough time to dry out, so it is advisable to alternate between two pairs of shoes. Additionally, wearing clean, moisture-wicking socks can help manage foot moisture and odour.
Practising good foot hygiene is crucial in reducing foot odour. Both the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and the US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) recommend washing the feet daily with soap and water. Thoroughly drying the feet, especially the areas between the toes, is essential, as bacteria thrive in moist environments. Keeping toenails short and clean is also important for maintaining good foot hygiene.
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of foot infections and may require special care and attention to foot hygiene. People with diabetes are prone to peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease, which can result in foot damage. A strong foot odour in diabetic patients could indicate a wound or ulcer that needs immediate medical attention.
Additionally, specific types of bacteria, such as Kyetococcus sedentarius, are associated with higher levels of foot odour. These bacteria produce sulfuric compounds, contributing to a more intense smell.
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Frequently asked questions
The female of the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, is attracted equally to the smell of Limburger cheese and dirty feet. This is because Limburger cheese is cultured with Brevibacterium epidermidis, a bacterium found on human skin.
Scientists hope to use an odor-emitting organism that attracts mosquitoes to build traps that will monitor and aid in the extermination of malaria-infested mosquitoes.
Dr. Knols and his colleagues at several universities have received an $8 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to continue their work to reduce the spread of malaria in Africa.
Some people believe that Parmesan cheese smells like dirty feet or socks.
Some people find the smell of Parmesan cheese repulsive, while others may not be as bothered by it. It is a matter of personal preference and sensitivity to certain odors.
