Reluctant trying of an unfamiliar food induces negative affection for the food

Six unfamiliar foods were introduced to children (8–11 years old, n = 72) who responded (yes/no) to questions as to whether they (1) had earlier seen, (2) had earlier tasted, (3) were willing to try, and (4) actually tried each food when given the opportunity. Pleasantness (if not tasted, expected pleasantness) of the foods was also rated. Children who wanted to try a food and tasted it, rated it pleasant. Children who were unwilling to try a food, but in spite of that tasted it, rated the pleasantness negatively and largely similarly to those who rated their expected pleasantness, without tasting. Food neophobia, evaluated by parents, was correlated with mean willingness to try (r = −0.39). The data provide evidence that reluctance to try a food determines subsequent hedonic experience and may act as a barrier to further familiarization with the food.