Sensory drivers of liking, emotions, conceptual and sustainability concepts in plant-based and dairy yoghurts

Abstract

Replacing animal-based protein food products with plant-based protein products is essential for human health and the environment. For this reason, a number of plant-based (PB) yoghurts have been developed to replace dairy yoghurt. However, many of these products suffer from poor sensory quality. In order to improve the quality of these products, data on the sensory drivers of liking, emotional, and conceptual responses to PB yoghurts, PB alternatives (PB blends, PB/dairy blends) and dairy yoghurts are required. In addition, in order to optimise the design of these products for sustainability-oriented consumers, research is needed on the drivers of consumers’ conceptualisations of sustainability. To provide actionable product development guidance on these issues, multi-attribute research was undertaken in a central location test with New Zealand consumers, using a variety of commercial PB and dairy yoghurts (blind sample presentation) that were expanded in their range of sensory attributes through ingredient modifications, with the goal of quasi-replicating and extending prior research on the sensory drivers of liking, emotions, and conceptualisations of PB yoghurts. Results of the research confirmed previous literature findings on the sensory drivers of liking and non-sensory variables in the PB yoghurt space. Among the salient findings related to sensory drivers are that white and lighter coloured yoghurts with smooth and creamy appearance and mouthfeel, sweet taste, and vanilla or coconut flavours maximise liking and positive emotional responses to yoghurt products. In addition, a number of these and other sensory characteristics elicited specific positive conceptualisations of the yoghurts. Although sustainability conceptualisations were evoked less frequently, the major positive drivers of these conceptualisations were “white colour,” “sweet,” “even/smooth” appearance and texture, “oat-like flavour” and “coconut flavour.” “Dairy flavour” evoked conceptualisations related to “traditional” and “authentic,” but also elicited a number of negative sustainability concepts, such as “resource intensive,” “commercially farmed raw materials” and reduced conceptualisation of “animal friendly.” Other important sensory drivers of liking, emotions and conceptualisations are discussed, providing consumer insights and direction to product developers in their efforts to improve the sensory characteristics, acceptance and consumption of PB and other alternative yoghurt products.