How Do Sensory Processing Differences Affect Taste and Texture Sensitivity in Autism?

PostedDecember 18, 2025

UpdatedDecember 18, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Taste and texture sensitivity in autism is a common Sensory Processing difference. Many autistic individuals experience heightened sensitivity to flavours, textures, or temperatures, often leading to food aversion or picky eating. For them, even mild changes in food texture or flavour can be overwhelming, causing distress, refusal, or physical reactions like gagging.

For someone with taste and texture sensitivity in autism, food textures such as crunchy, slimy, or mushy may be unbearable, making it difficult to enjoy mealtimes. This sensitivity can affect not just nutrition but also social situations, as eating out or family meals may become stressful. Fortunately, with the right support, children can expand their food preferences and develop healthier eating habits.

Common Symptoms of Taste and Texture Sensitivity in Autism

Here are a few key signs of taste and texture sensitivity and effective support strategies:

Refusing specific textures

Foods like soft, lumpy, or mixed-texture foods may be rejected. Feeding therapy and Sensory Integration Therapy can help gradually increase tolerance to new textures in a safe, non-stressful environment.

Limited food choices (picky eating)

A preference for a small range of familiar foods can lead to poor nutrition. Gradual exposure to new foods, positive reinforcement, and behavioural strategies can encourage flexibility and acceptance.

Gagging or distress during meals

Certain tastes or textures may trigger anxiety or a physical gag reflex. CBT or other behavioural therapies can help reduce anxiety around food, while occupational therapy can desensitise to new textures and flavours.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on supporting food aversion and managing picky eating in daily life.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.