Sensory studies with low-income, food-insecure consumers. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ramaroson Rakotosamimanana, Vonimihaingo; De Kock, Henriëtte L
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in food science. Volume 33(2020)
• Page Start: 108
• Page End: 114
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: Food -- Microbiology -- Periodicals; Food -- Analysis -- Periodicals; Food -- Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Food -- Periodicals; Food -- Research -- Periodicals; Nutrition -- Periodicals; Food -- Biotechnology; Food -- Microbiology; Food -- Analysis; Food; Food -- Research; Nutrition; Food Technology -- Periodicals; Food Analysis -- Periodicals; Food Microbiology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 641.3
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2020.03.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-7993

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Economically vulnerable consumers are conscious of food sensory quality. Development and validation of sensory test methods for use with low socioeconomic consumers are needed. The food choice motives of consumers in African countries need to be better understood. Researchers in African countries need to adapt best practice principles to apply under local circumstances. Abstract : A substantial proportion of African population is food-insecure, of low socioeconomic background. While much effort is made to address cost, safety and nutritional quality of food for economically vulnerable consumers, research specifically focusing on food acceptance and preference is seriously lacking. Here, we present examples of recently published studies to demonstrate the value of food research involving African consumer testing. A systematic search of the literature was performed and 44 studies reviewed. Gaps in research on the topics and approaches used by researchers when conducting consumer tests with these consumers were identified. The review concludes with a discussion about modifications of test methodologies that may be required when conducting consumer tests with low-income, food-insecure consumers. The consumer studies with undernourished or vulnerable individuals have clearly demonstrated the importance of doing such studies to formulate foods adapted for these target markets. These studies are important to fight undernutrition.