Reliability of a common solution-based taste perception test: Implications for validity and a briefer test

The aim of this study was to assess test–retest reliability of a common method for quantifying taste perception and its association with gustatory responses and individual risk for obesity and related health conditions. Forty-six healthy adults rated 20 mixtures comprised of 5 dairy beverages varied in fat content and mixed with sugar concentrations of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20%, following existing procedures. Individuals rated the sweetness, creaminess, and pleasantness of each mixture during two taste testing sessions occurring 7 ± 2 days apart. Test–retest correlations were of the expected magnitudes (r ≥ .50) only for the pleasantness ratings of mixtures with higher sugar concentrations. Correlations for sweetness and creaminess taste perception ratings were low, indicating that such ratings may not be reliable over approximately one week, and challenging the validity of such ratings for measuring trait taste perception. A shortened version of the test may be warranted.

► We report reliability of a common solution-based method to test taste perception.
► Test–retest ratings over one week were unreliable for most solutions.
► Ratings were reliable only for perceived pleasantness of high-sugar solutions.
► Results challenge method validity and may warrant modified, briefer protocols.