How Covid Could Change the Way Malta Eats Forever
A new study has revealed that anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell caused by Covid-19, could be a lifelong condition for some individuals. This has significant implications for food lovers in Malta, where the ability to savor the rich culinary heritage is a cherished part of life. Researchers found that even two years post-infection, 80% of individuals with altered smell still performed poorly in scent-detection tests, with 25% experiencing severe or complete smell loss. This sensory impairment not only affects safety and nutrition but also diminishes the enjoyment of Maltese cuisine, from the fragrant fennel in fenkata to the sweet almond notes of pastizzi. While treatments like vitamin A supplementation and olfactory training offer hope, full recovery may not be possible for everyone. With the emergence of new Covid variants and the risk of long-term complications, Maltese residents are urged to prioritize health and take precautions. Maintaining a nutrient-rich diet and practicing mindful eating can help protect sensory health, ensuring the continued
The Covid Symptom That Could Impact Your Taste for Life: What Malta’s Food Lovers Should Know
For food enthusiasts in Malta, the ability to savour the island’s rich culinary heritage is more than a pastime—it’s a celebration of life. However, a new study has revealed a lingering effect of Covid-19 that could permanently alter the way we experience food, posing challenges to both our physical and mental wellbeing.
It’s well established that Covid-19 can affect your sense of smell, a condition known as anosmia. But researchers now warn that, for some, this impairment may be lifelong. A study led by the National Institutes of Health found that even two years post-infection, 80% of individuals who reported changes in their sense of smell still performed poorly in clinical scent-detection tests. Alarmingly, around 25% of these individuals had either severe smell loss or had completely lost the ability to smell.
Dr. Leora Horwitz, the study’s co-lead author, emphasized how this sensory loss can profoundly impact daily life. Beyond the inability to detect dangers like smoke or spoiled food, anosmia can disrupt appetite and nutrition. “A dulled nose can have a significant effect on both mental and physical health,” she explained. For those passionate about food, this could mean losing the ability to fully appreciate the aromas and flavours that make Maltese cuisine so enticing—from the fragrant fennel in fenkata to the sweet almond notes of pastizzi.
The study involved thousands of participants, both those who had contracted Covid-19 and those who had not. Using a multiple-choice scent identification test with 40 distinct scents, researchers measured olfactory performance. Interestingly, 60% of the uninfected participants who reported no issues with their sense of smell also performed poorly. Experts believe this could be partly due to age-related decline or unrecognized past Covid infections.
For those in Malta who value their sensory connection to food and drink, this research is a wake-up call. Imagine sitting down to enjoy a platter of fresh lampuki or a glass of locally produced ġellewża wine, only to find the experience muted or absent entirely. The joy of dining out at Malta’s renowned restaurants, where chefs carefully balance flavours and aromas, could be diminished if anosmia takes hold.
Can anything be done to restore the sense of smell? Researchers are exploring options such as vitamin A supplementation and olfactory training, which involves exposing the brain to specific scents to “retrain” its response. While these methods offer hope, Dr. Horwitz cautioned that full recovery might not be possible for everyone. “It can last a long time, maybe forever. We don’t know, but it is absolutely possible that people don’t get their smell back,” she said.
This revelation comes as a new Covid strain, named Stratus, begins spreading in the UK. The strain, which comprises two variants—XFG and XFG.3—has been classified by the World Health Organization as a “variant under monitoring.” While the risk to global public health remains low and the current vaccines are expected to provide protection, the emergence of new variants is a reminder to stay vigilant, particularly as respiratory illness rates are expected to rise in the cooler months.
For Maltese residents, this is a timely reminder to prioritize health. The NHS advises staying at home and avoiding contact with others if you experience symptoms of infection, such as Covid. This approach not only protects your loved ones but also ensures that you’re minimizing the risk of long-term complications like anosmia.
In the meantime, food lovers can take steps to protect and enhance their sensory health. Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support overall wellbeing—such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins A and C—can help maintain a strong immune system. Additionally, engaging in mindful eating practices can deepen your appreciation for the flavours and textures of food, even if your sense of smell is temporarily impaired.
Malta’s thriving food scene, with its fusion of Mediterranean flavours and fresh, local ingredients, is a treasure worth savouring. Protecting your health ensures you can continue to enjoy the island’s culinary delights to the fullest. Whether you’re indulging in a seaside feast of grilled swordfish or exploring the vibrant aromas of a bustling farmers’ market, remember that your sense of smell is key to experiencing the best of Maltese cuisine.
Ultimately, the findings of this study are a reminder of how interconnected our health and lifestyle are. By staying informed and proactive, we can preserve not only our physical wellbeing but also our ability to enjoy the simple pleasures—like the aroma of freshly baked bread or the zest of a perfectly squeezed lemon—that make life in Malta so special.