Check out these 9 taste modulators

1. A company in Brooklyn makes "Masking Agents" to combat the aftertaste of whey and soy, proteins often used in supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, omega-3s, calorie-free sweeteners, and pharmaceutical ingredients.

2. In an effort to reduce sodium content in packaged foods—a goal for many companies making processed foods—the Kansas-based Danisco USA, Inc has come up with Grindsted SaltPro, a "sodium reduction system" that allows food processors to halve the sodium content without compromising the taste, texture, or firmness that salt contributes to food.

3. Similarly, SymLife Salt Natural is a savory and salt enhancer product that can assist in salt reduction—by up to 50 percent—while maintaining the salty perception on the tongue.

4. Smoothenol is a system of "flavor solutions" put out by Sensient Flavors LLC to mask off-notes and aftertastes of certain functional ingredients, and enhance the palatability of the foods that will (the companies hope) end up on your plate.

5. Purac Fit Plus is a product made from lactic acid that is meant to mask the off-flavors of high-intensity sweeteners like stevia. Unlike citric acid, this neutralizer masks the characteristic off-flavors of Stevia and other high-intensive sweeteners, resulting in a better-tasting, more rounded beverage.

6. Savoury Systems International, Inc. makes yeast extracts that can be used as replacements for salt or monosodium glutamate to enhance flavor in savory food products.

7. The Long Island, NY-based Comax Flavors makes a line called "Special Effects," with products offered that mask the aftertaste of stevia (an herbal sweetener), astringency in certain foods, and other off-tastes associated with vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

8. Bell Flavors & Fragrances Inc. makes ReduxSo flavor systems, another product for sodium reduction, are designed to mimic the sensation that sodium chloride delivers.

9. New Jersey-based Advanced Food Systems Inc. makes Chef Ready stock bases that can help make lower-sodium, lower-fat seasoning blends.