Hate Brussels sprouts? Scientists believe it is all down to your genetics

Young scientists at the Eden Project are testing their DNA for the gene that is believed to determine a person's feelings for the divisive green vegetable.

Sprouts contain a chemical similar to PTC (Phenylthiocarbamide), which tastes bitter to people who have a variation of a certain gene.

Those who have a mutated version of the gene do not taste the bitterness - and that could apply to around 50% of the world's population.

John Ellison, head of education strategy at the Eden Project, in Cornwall, said: "There is one particular gene that if mutated - and about half of us have this mutation - means you do not taste the bitterness in sprouts.

"If you cannot taste that chemical then you will not taste the bitterness. So it really is one of those love them or hate them type of things - and there is nothing you can do about it."

He added: "Brussels are a British tradition so this research is important. They get a lot of bad press, but I suspect largely with those who do not like them.

"They really split the nation, and now we know why."

The research by A-level students at the Eden Project is part of a national programme run by the UK Association for Science and Discovery Centres (ASDC), and supported by the Wellcome Trust.

Mr Ellison added: "These workshops use Brussels sprouts and our own DNA to show how humans and plants have evolved together.

"The Eden Project provides the context to connect molecular biology with rainforest research into the plant diversity which is vital for future survival."