Features Supertasters dodge a bullet When you think of supertasting, what favorite food do you fantasize about? For Dr. Mike, it's salmon burgers. But for true supertasters, with the supertaster gene that makes them highly sensitive to bitter and strong flavors, it's more about avoiding foods than longing for them. Jul. 12 2021 @ 4:18pm When you think of supertasting, what favorite food do you fantasize about? For Dr. Mike, it's salmon burgers. But for true supertasters, with the supertaster gene that makes them highly sensitive to bitter and strong flavors, it's more about avoiding foods than longing for them. Around 25% of folks are supertasters, and although they're food-wary (is that you?), they do get one major reward: Research has found that they are far less likely to contract COVID-19 and, if they do get it, they're not headed for the hospital.