Color Codes for Paired Preference and Hedonic Testing

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe use of color as a product coding device for consumer sensory testing was studied. Simple paired preference and hedonic tests were conducted using eight brightly colored, 2‐inch round labels on a carbonated lemon‐lime beverage packaged in 12‐oz aluminum cans. We concluded that little or no bias exists for the eight colors when used in paired preference tests. For hedonic testing, an order/color bias was noted for some pairs of colors. With appropriate order balancing those effects can be understood and reduced. Therefore, color coding is a valid technique that can be used for consumer sensory testing.