The American Chemical Society Series ‘Reactions’ Explains Why Toothpaste Makes Orange Juice Taste Terrible

A recent episode of The American Chemical Society series Reactions  (see previously) explains why toothpaste makes orange juice taste terrible. It all has to do with sodium lauryl sulfate and the way our tongues process taste.

It’s happened to many of us: Half asleep in the morning, you finish brushing your teeth and reach for your daily glass of orange juice. After taking a big swig, you spit it back out, making a face like you’ve just chewed on a lemon. Turns out, a specific chemical in your toothpaste is responsible for that nasty taste. This week, Reactions explains why toothpaste and orange juice don’t mix.