Variations in consumer acceptance, sensory engagement and method practicality across three remote consumer-testing...

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Consumer Behavior
• Sensory Analysis

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional in-person sensory testing.
• Existing literature lacks consensus on remote versus in-person sensory test methodologies.
• Interactive video conferencing shows potential for enhancing panelist engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare three remote consumer testing methods: live Zoom, asynchronous video, and written protocol.
• To evaluate sample acceptance, sensory engagement, and method practicality.
• To identify the most effective remote sensory testing approach for food products.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-four participants evaluated five chocolate-chip cookie products.
• Products were rated using a 9-point hedonic scale across three conditions: synchronous Zoom, asynchronous video, and written protocol.
• Participant engagement and time spent were recorded.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in sample liking patterns were observed across the three remote testing methods.
• Panelist engagement scores indicated the written protocol method minimized distraction and disinterest.
• No significant differences in test completion time were found between methods.

Conclusions:

• Remote consumer testing is a viable alternative for sensory evaluation.
• The written protocol method is recommended for its efficiency and comparable results.
• This method offers practical advantages for researchers conducting sensory studies remotely.