PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a material having hTRPV1 activation potency, and having a taste improver effect, by searching for/identifying hTRPV1 activation component in soy sauce.SOLUTION: An organic solvent extract from soy sauce is prepared, and fractionated/refined by using various kinds of columns, and Perlolyrine having high hTRPV1 activity is extracted, to thereby obtain a taste improver which is an activator of hTRPV1, a saltiness enhancer containing the same, an enhancer of flavor or richness, or a suppressor of acridity originated in potassium. A food product to which Perlolyrine is added is also provided.SELECTED DRAWING: None