Attend Sensory and Consumer Science conference in Spain
Abstract
Preliminary results of my PhD work were presented at the 4th European Conference on Sensory and Consumer Research in Spain. My poster titled "Developing a method to collect consumer preference data at Australian wine shows" highlighted the demographics of consumers at Australian wine shows and the effect of context on consumers' wine preference.
Summary
The 4th European Conference on Sensory and Consumer Research was held at the Europa Palacio Conference Centre in Vitoria-Gastiez, Spain from 5th to 8th September 2010. Over 500 Sensory and Consumer Science professionals from industry and academia met to discuss advances in Sensory and Consumer Science research in the food, beverage and non-food industries. Most delegates were from Europe, however a significant number of attendees from the rest of the world were also present. The theme for this year’s conference was ‘A Sense of Quality’. Oral sessions and poster presentations were centred on this theme and grouped in the following categories:
- Consumer Behaviour
- Sensory Perception
- Sensory Methods and Statistics (Methods)
- Sensory Quality Assurance and certifications
- Sensory Science Applications
- Future of sensory science
All sessions were relevant to my current PhD work but of particular significance were the sessions on Consumer Behaviour and Sensory Methods and Statistics. Preliminary findings for my PhD research work was displayed at the first poster session under the Consumer Behaviour, Perception and Methods sections. The poster session was a success as there was opportunity to discuss my work with colleagues working in similar areas. Existing contacts with other Sensory and Consumer Scientists in Europe were strengthened, new contacts were made and opportunities to collaborate with researchers in Europe discussed with Dr Alistair Paterson. Knowledge gained from the conference has been useful to my PhD work. I will present some of the insights gained at the Faculty of Science Symposium in December and also to colleagues at the NWGIC at one of the seminar series organised here.