The present application is directed to sensory technologies for beverages and other products that significantly reduce or fully mask bitterness and/or off-flavor associated with the presence of functional ingredients, such as caffeine or L-phenylalanine. In particular, reduction or masking of the bitterness and/or off-flavor in the beverage or food composition is achieved through the addition of trigeminal sensation-eliciting compounds, referred to herein as sensates, responsible for cooling, warming, tingling, or mouthfeel-type sensations.
