This chef says losing ability to taste, smell due to COVID left him 'completely just lost' Loss of smell and taste have become well-known symptoms of COVID-19. But for chefs and other people working in the food industry, losing those senses can be especially devastating — both personally, and professionally. Social Sharing CBC Radio · Posted: Mar 02, 2021 3:22 PM ET | Last Updated: March 3 Justin Burke is a pastry chef, food writer and recipe developer in South Carolina. He lost his ability to taste and smell after catching COVID-19.(Carter Short Photography)