A study by the Dairy Matters Department found that adding dairy to food causes a “burst of pleasure” of 27 percent.

As part of the consumer marketing campaign, Dairy UK (the UK Dairy Supply Chain Association) and the AHDB (Agriculture and Horticulture Development Council) studied how people react to and without dairy products.

Participants' brain impulses were measured using bandages, and an expert in body language monitored their micro-expressions.

In addition to a “burst of pleasure,” the results also showed that almost three quarters of Britons say they cannot imagine a world without dairy products.

Rebecca Mia, head of the AHDB dairy marketing, said: “Perhaps in the biggest gourmet experiment of all time, we have proven that adding a delicious dose of dairy products to food really makes you happier.” 79% of respondents said that adding portions of yogurt to the dishes or sprinkling with cheese makes them more pleasant.

In the four food groups tested, more than 82% of preferences related to dairy than to non-dairy products, while people said that adding yogurt, butter, cheese or cream makes food more attractive, improves its taste and texture.