Umami is a Japanese word, meaning delicious and savoury, which has been shown to be distinct from saltiness. It is found in foods that contain high levels of glutamate, such as cured meats, shellfish, soy sauce, cheese and green tea, and other foods rich in protein.he ability to taste umami in food could have an effect on overall health, particularly in older people, Japanese researchers suggest. Sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami are the five basic tastes.