I dislike Brussels sprouts — many people do — and there may be a scientific reason behind it.
Brussel Sprouts
Research shows that variation in a taste receptor gene affects how people perceive bitter compounds found in cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts. Around half of the population carries versions of this gene that make them particularly sensitive to certain bitter chemicals. Those who are more sensitive often find the flavor unpleasant, while others with different gene variants perceive the same vegetables as milder or even enjoyable.
So it’s not just personal preference or poor cooking — genetics play a big role in whether someone finds Brussels sprouts bitter and off-putting. That genetic diversity helps explain why some people love Brussels sprouts and others avoid them entirely.