Pamela Oscarson and Katie Buss discuss polarizing flavors and their influences on consumer preferences. They explore the role of emotions, genetics, and culture in shaping perceptions of flavors. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and give tips on encouraging consumers to try new flavors. Additionally, they talk about the challenges of gauging reactions to food and share sneaky ways to get kids to eat disliked foods.
Polarizing flavors can vary greatly in acceptance or rejection among individuals, influenced by genetics, emotions, and personal experiences.
Pairing unfamiliar flavors with something more familiar or using creative naming can help change someone's perspective on a flavor.
Deep dives
The Power of Flavor in What We Eat
Flavor is the number one consideration when it comes to what we consume. Taste is a complex combination of memory, feeling, science, and art. Polarizing flavors exist, and people have strong preferences for or against them. Personal experiences, genetics, environment, and cultural influences shape our flavor likes and dislikes. However, our tastes can also change over time as we expose ourselves to new foods and flavors. Genetics play a role in our sensitivity to certain flavors, such as bitterness. Changing minds about flavors can be achieved through pairing unfamiliar flavors with something more familiar or using creative naming. Nostalgic flavors are making a comeback, as consumers seek comfort and familiarity. The flavor industry relies on consumer insights and data to develop products that cater to consumer preferences. It is important to understand that not everyone will be pleased, but the majority should be satisfied. Consumer feedback and open-mindedness are crucial in shaping the future of flavors.
Top Polarizing Flavors
Among the top polarizing flavors are cilantro, grapefruit, licorice, anise, Vegemite, fennel, curry, Brussels sprouts, coffee, coconut, and candy corn. These flavors can vary greatly in acceptance or rejection among individuals. Factors such as genetics, emotions, cultural influences, and personal experiences contribute to these polarizations. Mint and lavender also divide opinions, reflecting the wide range of flavors that can elicit strong reactions from different people.
Changing Minds and Reintroducing Flavors
When trying to change someone's perspective on a flavor, pairing it with something more familiar or appealing can be effective. Mixing unfamiliar flavors with well-liked ones or using creative naming can make consumers more open to trying new flavors. Childhood memories and emotional connections to flavors also play a significant role in shaping preferences. Additionally, reintroducing nostalgic flavors can evoke positive emotions and create a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Understanding Consumer Preferences and Adapting to Evolving Tastes
Understanding consumer tastes and preferences is crucial in the flavor industry. Taking on the consumer's perspective, rather than just the role of a professional, helps in developing products that cater to their needs. Consumer surveys, feedback, and interactions are important for gathering insights. The industry constantly adapts to evolving tastes by introducing new flavors, reinventing traditional ones, and embracing nostalgia. Ultimately, flavors play a significant role in shaping our food experiences and evoking memories and emotions.
In this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Consumer Insights Manager, and Katie Buss, Director of Sensory, and they explore polarizing flavors, why some popular flavors are polarizing, and why polarizing isn't necessarily a bad thing. They discuss what influences consumers' perceptions of flavors and how emotions, genetics, and culture play a role in these expectations. Tune in to see if your favorite polarizing flavor makes their list!
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