ARS | Publication request: Consumer evaluation of new tangerine hybrids from the UF-CREC citrus breeding program

Submitted to: Florida State Horticultural Society Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: April 5, 2008
Publication Date: April 23, 2008
Citation: Valim, M.F., Gmitter Jr., F.G., Plotto, A., Baldwin, E. 2008. Consumer evaluation of new tangerine hybrids from the UF-CREC citrus breeding program. Florida State Horticultural Society Meeting. Paper No. HP3.

Technical Abstract: The objective of this study was to conduct a consumer evaluation of new tangerine hybrids from the UF-CREC citrus breeding program, together with some commercial varieties. A total of 153 mall intercept interviews were conducted with a random sample of fresh citrus fruit consumers in three markets: Baltimore, MD, Chicago, IL and Tampa, FL. Consumer acceptance was determined based on the following attributes: overall appearance, flavor, and specific product characteristics that included color, sweetness, acidity, juiciness, ease of peeling, amount of seeds, size and shape. Degree of liking/disliking and consumer expected consumption and purchase intent were also evaluated. Six samples were tested in each location: three new unreleased tangerine hybrids plus Dancy, Minneola and Spanish Clementine commercial varieties. One of the new unreleased hybrids scored overall ahead of all other samples, including the three commercial varieties. The test also provided useful information regarding consumer eating and purchasing habits concerning fresh citrus.