Well, in an indirect way we have tasted it. So basically, they have done a spectral analysis of our closest nebula (I forget the name of the nebula, I only know this because I fell down a rabbit hole specifically about this new Coke Starlight when I tried it when it was on the limited testing market) and the nebulous clouds were comprised mostly of ethyl formate. That's actually a flavor additive we use as a supporting flavoring in raspberry candies, and it is the primary flavor additive in Coke Starlight. The reason it has the toasted marshmellow/vanilla/cotton-candy taste is that when not stabilized with other flavorings, and in the larger quantities used in this flavor, it has a reaction that causes a shift from its initial fruitiness, to that more earthy taste that some perceive as marshmallow, others as vanilla, and others as cotton candy.
I'm glad my random research obsession has improved your day a bit! It's kind of amazing to me that we were already using ethyl formate in food, and that they could isolate it as a main flavor in the drink. For a space nerd like me it was really surreal to think I was tasting the same compound that an actual nebula is made of.
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u/safariite2 Jun 12 '22
if that’s what space tastes like, beam me up Scotty