Consumer studies

Consumer studies apply rigorous sensory evaluation methodology to obtain product acceptance or preference data from targeted consumers. Consumers indicate their overall opinion of a sample in a controlled central testing location.

Depending on the aim of the project, a panel of more than 100 assessors, who are regular consumers of the product, will be recruited. Affinity Labs has a database of over 1,200 South Australia-based consumers and works with partner agencies to coordinate consumer testing in other states and overseas.

How do consumer studies benefit food and beverage producers

Product development and innovation
Consumer studies are invaluable in the development of new products and the refinement of existing ones. By understanding which sensory attributes are most important to consumers, manufacturers can design products that are more likely to succeed in the market. This approach allows for the creation of products that not only meet but exceed consumer expectations, leading to increased brand loyalty and market share.

Quality control
These studies also play a crucial role in quality control. By regularly testing products against consumer acceptability and preferences, companies can maintain a consistent product quality that meets consumer expectations. This is particularly important in the food and beverage industry, where even small changes in flavour, texture or appearance can have a significant impact on consumer satisfaction.

Competitive advantage
In a crowded market, consumer studies can provide a significant competitive advantage by allowing manufacturers to understand how sensory attributes compare to competitor products leading to new customers and an increased market share.

Consumer-centric product positioning
Consumer studies help companies position their products more effectively by aligning product characteristics with customer wants. For instance, if a study reveals that consumers prefer a particular texture or flavour profile, the company can highlight these attributes in their marketing campaigns, appealing directly to consumer preferences.

Cost efficiency
Investing in sensory analysis can lead to long-term cost savings by identifying and addressing potential issues with a product before it goes to market. Understanding consumer acceptability and preference allows for more targeted product development and can speed up time to market.

Methodologies

There are two leading consumer study methodologies offered by Affinity Labs, consumer preference studies and consumer acceptance studies. Consumer preference studies help manufacturers gain insights into how their products are perceived by consumers by evaluating the sensory attributes of products such as taste, texture, aroma and appearance. By analysing the data gathered from preference studies, companies can refine their products to better meet consumer expectations.

Consumer acceptance studies help producers gain insights into the acceptance of their products through consumer liking and disliking. Preferences can be inferred by a superior acceptance score of one product over another. For these reasons, many sensory professionals consider acceptance tests to be a better choice than a preference test.

For more information on each of these methodologies, read our articles.
How consumer preference studies drive product innovation and customer satisfaction
Using consumer acceptance studies to deliver market-ready products

Applications

New product development
When launching a new product, it is crucial to ensure that it meets consumer needs and expectations. Consumer studies provide detailed insights into how the target audience perceives the product, allowing for product optimisation before the product hits the market. This can be the difference between a successful product launch and a failed one.

Product reformulation
Consumer studies are essential when reformulating existing products, whether to change ingredients or adapt to new market trends. By understanding how changes in formulation can affect consumer acceptability, companies can make informed decisions that maintain or enhance product appeal.

Brand differentiation
In highly competitive market segments, consumer studies can help a brand differentiate its products by focusing on the characteristics that consumers value most. This helps to create products that stand out from the competition and offer a unique selling point that resonates with consumers.

Shelf-life testing
Understanding how a product’s sensory attributes change over time is crucial for determining its shelf life. Consumer sensory studies can identify when a product’s quality begins to decline, allowing companies to set accurate shelf-life dates and ensure that consumers experience the product at its best.

Capability

Affinity Labs employs a team of highly qualified sensory scientists who each hold a diploma in Applied Sensory and Consumer Science from the University of California, Davis. They are skilled in all aspects of statistical analysis and experimental design and work with producers to define objectives and design assessments to achieve a successful outcome.

Our state-of-the-art sensory laboratory is equipped to ISO standards with individual sensory booths to ensure a suitable environment for assessments. Separate panel and meeting rooms allow for in-depth discussion of products with assessors. The laboratory uses data acquisition software for flexible set-up of tests and collection of data.

Leverage valuable insights

Whether you’re developing a new product or enhancing an existing one, its success hinges on consumer perception and acceptance. It’s important to thoroughly understand consumer response in detail when embarking on a product innovation or optimisation program.

Our team of highly qualified sensory scientists employ quantitative and qualitative methods to delve into consumers’ expectations and experiences. No matter the challenges our clients face, we consistently provide innovative solutions that position them for market success.

If you’re facing a challenge where understanding consumer acceptability and preferences could guide your path forward and set you up for success, our Projects Team is here to help. Contact us to learn how consumer studies can optimise your products.