Question

Which of the following is NOT a type of "Difference test"?

• A. Duo-trio test
• B. Triangle test
• C. Paired-comparison test
• D. Hedonic test

Hint:

Remember the core question each sensory test answers:
Difference Tests (Triangle, Duo-Trio): "Are they different?"
Affective/Hedonic Tests: "How much do you like it?"
This distinction is key to classifying them correctly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sensory evaluation tests are broadly categorized into two types: analytical tests and affective tests. Analytical tests use trained panelists to determine differences or describe characteristics, while affective tests use consumers to determine preference or acceptance. Difference tests are a sub-category of analytical tests.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
- Difference tests are designed to answer the simple question: "Are these products different?" They do not ask which is better. - Triangle test: Panelists are given three samples (two are the same, one is different) and asked to identify the odd one out. - Duo-trio test: Panelists are given a reference sample, then two other samples, and asked to identify which of the two matches the reference. - Paired-comparison test: Panelists are given two samples and asked to identify which one has more of a specific attribute (e.g., "Which is sweeter?"). This is a directional difference test.
- Affective tests are designed to measure subjective responses like liking or preference. - Hedonic test: This is the most common affective test. Panelists are asked to rate their liking for a product on a scale, typically the 9-point hedonic scale ranging from "Dislike extremely" to "Like extremely."
Since the Hedonic test measures liking, not just difference, it is an affective test, not a difference test.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The Duo-trio, Triangle, and Paired-comparison tests are all types of difference tests. The Hedonic test is an affective test that measures liking. Therefore, the Hedonic test is not a difference test. Option (D) is correct.