Switching from regular seasoning cubes and high-salt powders to healthy seasoning or natural alternatives (like herbs, spices, and homemade mixes) sounds simple, but in reality, many people struggle with it.
The question is: why is it so hard for people to let go of their old favourite seasoning cubes? We have found the answer to this question right here.
1. Taste Buds And The “Flavor Memory” Problem
Our taste buds are like sensors that adapt to what we feed them regularly.
If you’ve eaten food with strong artificial flavours and high salt content for years, your taste buds become “trained” to expect that taste.
Now, studies show that it is possible to retrain your taste buds. One of the ways to achieve this is a taste recall training, according to a study (1).
When you switch to healthy seasoning (like ginger, garlic, turmeric, thyme, or local herbs), the flavour feels bland at first. In fact, your meal feels like it does not have a great taste.
You see, the brain stores “flavour memories,” so anything different feels like something is missing.
It takes about 2–3 weeks of consistent use for taste buds to adjust and start appreciating natural flavours.
This retraining process is uncomfortable for many, and that’s why they give up quickly.
2. Instant Gratification vs. Patience
Artificial seasonings are designed in food labs to hit your taste buds fast with salt, sugar, and umami enhancers. Yes! There is sugar in your seasoning cubs. Read more about it in our article: How I Stopped Using Seasoning Cubes And Made Mine
They trick your brain into thinking food tastes better instantly.
On the other hand, natural seasonings usually build flavour more slowly and subtly.
This requires patience and cooking skills, something many people are not willing to invest time in.
3. Cultural And Habitual Influence
In many Nigerian homes, children grow up eating meals flavoured with cubes and powders.
By the time they become adults, these flavours are part of their cultural food memory.
Replacing them with something new feels like breaking tradition.
4. Convenience And Accessibility
Most importantly, artificial seasonings are cheap, easy to use, and widely available in every market.
Healthy seasoning alternatives (like dried herbs, blended natural spices, or low-sodium mixes) may cost more, require preparation, or are harder to find.
Convenience often wins over health, but you have to chose health.
5. The Myth Of “Taste vs. Health”
Some people believe that healthy food doesn’t taste good.
This myth keeps them stuck with unhealthy options.
In reality, once the taste buds are retrained, natural seasonings unlock richer, more complex flavours that artificial cubes cannot match.
How To Retrain Your Taste Buds
Start small: Reduce the quantity of artificial seasoning gradually instead of cutting it off completely.
Mix flavours: Combine a little natural spice with your usual cubes until your tongue adjusts.
Stay consistent: Give it at least 21 days — that’s how long it usually takes to adapt.
Experiment: Try different herbs and spice combinations to find flavors you enjoy.
Educate your mind: Remember that food is not just about taste — it’s about long-term health.
Takeaway
Many people don’t like to switch to healthy seasoning because their taste buds are already trained to expect strong artificial flavors.
Natural seasonings feel bland at first, but with 2–3 weeks of retraining, the taste buds adjust, and healthier food becomes enjoyable.