The smell of freshly baked bread makes you behave nicely. That’s the result of a study in France.

The test is almost laughable: The university researchers had a group of people stand outside a bakery, while a second group hung around a dry cleaner’s with that nasty chemical smell. People in both groups “accidentally” drops a small item such as a handkerchief or grocery list. Half the people at the dry cleaner’s helped pick it up off the floor. Yet, over three-quarters at the bakery were helpful.

A psychologist says this test proves (quote) “spontaneous help is offered more in areas where pleasant ambient smells are spread.”

Fennel bread

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