Experts reveal that iced coffee fans stick to their chilled brew year-round due to psychological and sensory reasons. Psychologist Dr. Deborah Gilman states that daily routines, like drinking iced coffee, offer stability and reduce mental effort, making them hard to break. The cold temperature of iced coffee also lessens the bitterness and acidity, making it more palatable for some. Food scientist Jessica Gavin explains that cooler temperatures suppress TRPM5 channels on our taste buds, which are responsible for detecting strong flavors. Additionally, iced coffee has lifestyle appeal, particularly among younger consumers, bolstered by visually appealing presentations on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This aesthetic appeal is often amplified by major coffee chains with trendy, seasonal offerings. Despite the cold weather, the refreshing kick of iced coffee continues to entice its devotees, offering both psychological comfort and a sensory experience that hot coffee can't match.
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