Sensory and Consumer Studies for Improving Citrus Quality

Abstract

In Florida, it is necessary to produce large quantities of high quality citrus fruits in order to keep pace with the projected market growth, as well as to maintain viability of the citrus industry. Successful development of new varieties and pre- and post-harvest practices should be consumer-driven. However, consumer behavior is often affected not only by individual factors (genetics, age, gender, culture, etc.), but also by product specific factors (sensory) and environmental factors (marketing) as well. The University of Florida Citrus Research and Education Center’s (CREC’s) Flavor Program is taking steps to systematically study these factors to understand the market, develop informational resources that can be used directly by the industry (growers, packers, shippers, and marketers) and promote the production and marketing of competitive new varieties grown in Florida.