1.1This document covers a procedure for determining preference between two products using either a two-alternative forced-choice task, or with the option of choosing no preference. Preference testing is a type of hedonic testing.

1.2A paired preference test determines whether there is a statistically significant preference between two products for a given population of respondents. The target population must be carefully considered.

1.3This method establishes preference in a single evaluation context. Replicated tests will not be covered within the scope of this document.

1.4Paired preference testing can address overall preference or preference for a specified sensory attribute.

1.5The method does not directly determine the magnitude of preference.

1.6This method does not address whether or not two samples are perceived as different. Refer to Test Method E2164 for directional difference test.

1.7A paired preference test is a simple task for respondents, and can be used with populations that have minimal reading or comprehension skills, or both.

1.8Preference is not an intrinsic attribute of the product, such as hue is, but is a subjective measure relating to respondents' affective or hedonic response. It differs from paired comparison testing which measures objective characteristics of the product. Preference results are always dependent on the population sampled.

1.9This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use, when testing includes hazardous materials, operations, or equipment. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.