Dr. Gutierrez is discussing evolutionary influences on taste. She notes that tastes push us toward foods we need and away from those that can harm us. This is one reason why humans have gravitated toward the taste of , because it signals the presence of proteins.

umami

Explanation:

The reason why humans have gravitated towards the taste of umami is because it signals the presence of proteins.

Umami is one of the five basic tastes, alongside sweet, bitter, salty, and sour and it is best described as a savory or “meaty” flavor. Also, the word “umami” is Japanese and means “a pleasant savory taste.” umami can be tasted in foods that contain a high level of the amino acid glutamate, like Parmesan cheese, seaweed, miso, and mushrooms.