IMPROVEMENT OF TRIANGLE TEST DATA BY USE OF INCENTIVES

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe objectives of this study were to determine the distribution of the sensory panelists’ ability to detect differences and to improve the triangle test by minimizing unnecessary guessing. The triangle test was modified to include the use of economic incentives through which panelists voluntarily revealed their ability to detect differences. Panelists were asked to estimate their ability to detect differences and the probability of identifying the odd sample in a triangle test. They were then organized into three ability groups according to their responses. Double triangle tests, followed by triangle tests with economic incentives, were used to evaluate a cereal product and a beverage. The ability to detect differences was modeled as a probability, and the distribution of panelists was estimated. The economic incentives test was more effective when used with the beverage in which differences were less difficult to detect. We found that the economic incentive test discouraged the panelists from guessing unnecessarily, thus increasing the motivation of the panelists to detect differences, and allowing researchers to determine the distribution of discrimination ability.