The Reported Effects of Foods and Beverages on Cigarette Taste: A Factorial Design Examining Menthol Status and Race

Introduction: Cigarette taste is a central component of the rewarding effects of smoking. It has been suggested that foods and beverages may alter the taste of cigarettes. However, little is known about the relationship between foods and cigarette taste. Methods: The present investigation assessed smokers' perceptions of how different foods and beverages affect cigarette taste using a newly developed 23-item questionnaire administered as part of a parent study that recruited a balanced sample of Black and White and menthol and non-menthol smokers (N = 100). Results: Some foods and beverages were perceived as enhancing (e.g., alcohol, coffee, beef) or worsening (e.g., milk/dairy, vegetables, fruits) the reported taste of cigarettes regardless of race and menthol smoking status. For some foods and beverages there were differences in ratings based on menthol status or race, but no interactions. There were also differences in some food consumption frequencies based on race and/or menthol status. Conclusions: Foods may differentially affect cigarette taste, which could affect both smoking and dietary choices. Future research should examine the relationship between food and smoking taste and reward with larger and more diverse samples as any effects of foods on cigarette taste could have important public health implications.