Why do different colors of playdough smell and feel different?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the sensory differences in smell and feel among different colors of playdough. Participants explore whether these differences are real or perceived, touching on psychological factors and potential changes in formulation over time.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that there should be no difference in smell or feel among colors of playdough.
  • Others argue that perceived differences could be psychological, drawing parallels to experiences with candy.
  • A participant recalls that playdough smelled the same decades ago, questioning if its formulation has changed.
  • One participant claims they can distinguish between different colors of playdough by smell, even with their eyes closed.
  • Another proposes that the manufacturer might have included scents intentionally to assist visually impaired individuals.
  • It is noted that individuals may vary in their ability to recognize different smells.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the differences in smell and feel are real or merely psychological, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain without consensus.

Contextual Notes

Some claims depend on personal experiences and perceptions, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion does not resolve whether changes in formulation have occurred over time.

KarminValso1724
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Shouldn't they all be the same?
 
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My grand kids say there is no difference in smell or feel amongst colors. If you notice a difference, it could be psychological. Sort of like finding a lone red M&M candy amongst the mostly browns. I would wait to the end to gulp it down, but in actuality, it was the same chocolate candy that melted in your mouth and not in your hand, no real difference in taste.
 
55 years ago when I played with it, it smelled the same. 22 y/a when my son played with it, it smelled the same. Maybe something changed?
 
PhanthomJay said:
My grand kids say there is no difference in smell or feel amongst colors. If you notice a difference, it could be psychological. Sort of like finding a lone red M&M candy amongst the mostly browns. I would wait to the end to gulp it down, but in actuality, it was the same chocolate candy that melted in your mouth and not in your hand, no real difference in taste.
I have a couple of cans. I can easily smell the difference with my eyes closed so I do not know which can Is which.
 
Maybe the manufacturer included scents deliberately as a help for blind people.
 
Let's not forget we are not all equal when it comes to recognizing smells.
 

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