Persons complaining of dysgeusia have recently increased in male and female of all ages. Since a decrease in the serum zinc level is known as its cause, its association with favorite foods, such as carbonated drinks, preference for spicy foods, and ready-cooked foods sold at convenience stores and super market (abbreviated as convenience foods below) was investigated. The subjects were 387 two-shift hospital workers (physicians, nurses, radiologists, and paramedics). Based on the serum zinc level and results of a questionnaire survey, significant differences were noted in the sex and preference for spicy foods. Serum zinc level was significantly lower in females than males, and this may have been due to the difference in the muscle mass. In addition, in females, this level was significantly lower in the group liking than disliking spicy foods.