Sensory preferences for pomegranate arils in Italy: A comparison between different varieties and cultivation sites

Despite the growing worldwide interest on pomegranate due to its health benefits, little is known about varieties produced and consumed in Italy. In this context, aim of our study was evaluate factors affecting preferences Italian consumers towards arils different cultivation sites. Three samples were analysed. Two retrieved from local (Veneto) agricultural market: one Turkish origin Sicilian (Italy) origin. The third producers Veneto. Selected ‘Wonderful’ for ‘Hicaz’ Turkish. Samples have been characterized by panel tests physicochemical analyses. Consumers' assessed submitting a questionnaire 203 college students. Results showed that significantly sensory characteristics among Significant differences also emerged preferences. Wonderful Sicily most preferred sample: highest overall liking (6.65) higher appreciation sweetness (6.47), juiciness (6.18) size (6.57); Veneto least appreciated (5.48). this, content polyphenols. Sensory evaluation pomegranates sites can effectively predict consumers' market. traits contributing are arils, their red colour, firmness size, while bitterness, seed intrusiveness astringency products' affect least.