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Conditioned flavour preferences reinforced by caffeine consumed after lunch
N J Richardson1, P J Rogers, N A Elliman
1Consumer Sciences Department, Institute of Food Research, Reading Laboratory, UK.
Physiology & Behavior
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Caffeine consumption enhances preference for associated drinks, particularly in regular users, by improving mood. This study reveals caffeine
Area of Science:
- Behavioral neuroscience
- Psychopharmacology
Background:
- Caffeine is a widely consumed psychoactive substance.
- Its role in learned preferences and mood regulation warrants further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reinforcing effects of caffeine on taste preferences.
- To examine caffeine's impact on post-lunch mood in habitual users.
Main Methods:
- Adults were categorized as regular caffeine users or nonusers.
- A novel fruit juice was paired with caffeine or placebo over 10 trials.
- Drink preferences were assessed before and after conditioning.
Main Results:
- Regular caffeine users showed increased preference for caffeine-paired drinks.
- Nonusers exhibited a trend towards decreased preference for placebo-paired drinks.
- Caffeine consumption improved mood in habitual users, unlike placebo.
Conclusions:
- Caffeine exerts a reinforcing effect, driving preference acquisition for caffeinated beverages.
- Improved mood state likely contributes to the learned preference for caffeine.
- These findings highlight caffeine's significant role in shaping beverage choices.