Determined the absolute taste-threshold values for saccharin, quinine hydrochloride, hydrochloric acid, and sodium chloride in 32 male adult Wistar rats, 8 Ss for each taste material, using a conditioned suppression behavioral protocol. Lateral hypothalamic stimulation was used as the reinforcement. The reinforcement (ICS) was not a discernible taste substance and, therefore, there was no interference with the measurement of absolute taste threshold. The taste thresholds were readily obtained within 3-4 wk. following surgical implantation of the hypothalamic electrodes and 2-3 wk. after the beginning of training. After training, a threshold value for each taste material was readily obtained during a 20-min experimental trial. (17 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)