Repeatability in hedonic sensory measurement:: a conceptual exploration

The traditional view of measurement repeatability is discussed in the light of psychological theories about stability and change in preference and choice behavior. The argumentation is illustrated by data obtained in groups of children and adults who are exposed to the same hedonic sensory measurements a number of times. It is demonstrated that first hedonic impressions are poor predictors of final liking and choice. The repeatability of hedonic methods should be judged on the basis of the stability of the change in preference of different. but comparable populations, rather than on the reliability of repeated measurement in the same population. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.