Subtle sensory and labeling modifications have minimal impact on expected appetitive sensations in chewy bars

Given the contribution of frequent hunger and overeating to the rising incidence of obesity, strategies to increase the satiating and satiety-inducing properties of snacks and meals are needed. In this study, we conducted three experiments to explore the contribution of sensory and labeling modifications to expected satiation and satiety in a popular and versatile snack: a chewy bar. For each experiment, we chose subtle interventions that could be incorporated into a variety of products without requiring significant reformulation. In experiment one, participants evaluated ten chewy bar samples (five flavors, two peanut form conditions) and rated five expected appetitive sensations. In experiment two, participants viewed one of six packaging images with various labeling interventions (control, protein bar label, "good for you" logo, meal bar label, calorie content logo, and "satisfies hunger longer" logo). The strongest sensory and labeling interventions from the first two experiments were combined and simultaneously evaluated in experiment three. Although we did not detect any significant effects of sensory or labeling modifications in any of the experiments, exploratory post-hoc analysis suggested that whole peanuts suppressed expected hunger and increased expected fullness, and that protein labeling increased expected satiety. Additionally, through a penalty-benefit analysis of check-all-that-apply (CATA) product characteristics, we identified several attributes that consumers may positively (wholesome, indulgent, sweet, heavy, rich) and negatively (processed) associate with expected appetitive sensations. Incorporation of sensory and packaging cues that elicit (or avoid, in the case of "processed") these attributes may aid in the creation of functional products to help manage appetite. Combining several intrinsic and extrinsic product modifications is likely necessary to meaningfully alter expected appetitive sensations.