| This sensory study describes the application of descriptive analysis (DA) and 'in store' consumer test using six mango cultivars ("Ataulfo", "Tommy Atkins", "Kent", "Haden", "Keitt" and "Francis") imported from 6 locations (Mexico, Brazil, Guatemala, Peru, Ecuador and Haiti). In order to develop drivers of liking, controlled sensory studies using descriptive analysis (DA) techniques to describe and segregate cultivars into their predominant sensory properties were carried out by a trained taste panel. At the same time, 'in store' consumer tests, using two most popular cultivars, "Ataulfo" and "Tommy Atkins", from Mexico and Brazil were executed in a supermarket by using different levels of ripe soluble solids content (RSSC). The results from this sensory study indicate that location did not influence flavor sensory and appearance attributes, and consumer acceptance when fruit were picked at the right maturity level. Each cultivar had a characteristic sensory profile that should be matched with consumer preferences. This information will help the mango industry to establish a minimum quality index for a Ripe & Ready mango program. The development of the minimum quality index will help to consistently deliver fruit of high eating quality and increase consumption for current and future consumers. The DA and 'in store' data will also be used to develop drivers of liking that will facilitate cultivar evaluation and postharvest technology impact on consumer reactions by a small trained panel. Further work to determine the role of ripe titratable acidity (RTA), RSSC/RTA ratio, phenolics, and volatiles on the consumer acceptance is needed. |
