There was no mention of this characteristic of asparagus. I hated to bother my high school biology teacher with this, partly because I'd have to mention the subject of urine to both him and probably his wife, my high school math teacher. When I couldn' t get past the obvious reference book cover-up, however, I called. Charlie went to his library in Massachusetts and, at first, called to tell me he couldn't find out. I guess that the disappointment in my voice, on your behalf, michael, must have been great, because late last night I got a message from Charlie saying that asparagus has large amounts of ketones, which cause this phenomenon.
Beets do a similar thing.
I think, somehow, I've grown from this experience. All letters to the editor are for publication and may be edited for length and clarity.