Immersive sensory evaluation: Practical use of virtual reality sensory booth

Abstract

Sensory booths enhanced with VR technology have displayed promising potential for improving sensory evaluation, perception research, and educational experiences. However, there remains an insufficient of data on VR's utilization in sensory science. In our research, we designed a virtual sensory booth (SB) utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) to complement sensory analysis and foster applications in the field of sensory science. The experiment involved the utilization of diverse sensory methods and product samples for examination within the virtual SB, which was compared to the traditional SB. A total of forty-three participants took part in the study to scrutinize the implications of the virtual SB. The results of a post-VR questionnaire demonstrated the participants' positive reception of the virtual SB. The study's findings suggest that the virtual SB could serve as a valuable resource for sensory scientists and individuals keen on exploring the emerging opportunities offered by VR. Notably, the virtual SB has proven to have potential applications, particularly within the food industry, with a special focus on sensory science.•Virtualized SB incorporating VR technology is a promising sensory evaluation and perception studies approach.•Virtual SB intends to use various sensory methods in VR applications for sensory analysis.•The creation of new VR-based technological solutions for sensory analysis can serve as a supplement to traditional sensory analysis.