Otago students share latest in sensory neuroscience and nutrition in USA

17-21 August 2025 - Riddet Institute PhD students from Otago University showcased the lastest in sensory science at the prestigious Pangborn conference in Philadelphia in August.

The 16th Pangborn Sensory Science Symposium brought together leading researchers and practitioners under the theme "Connecting Senses and Minds." Associate Professor Mei Peng and her students from the Sensory Neuroscience and Nutrition (SENNSE) Lab at the University of Otago made a strong impact, contributing nine posters and four oral presentations to the conference.

Associate Professor Mei Peng presented findings from a recent study exploring the role of multisensory mental imagery in shaping eating behaviour. The research provides novel insights into fundamental sensory perception and breaks new ground in understanding consumer sensory experiences. By revealing how sensory imagery – particularly of flavour and texture – shapes sensory expectations and eating behaviour, it advances our understanding of the psychological drivers behind food experiences. She also showcased a poster linking multisensory imagery with food neophobia.

Several Riddet Institute PhD students from the SENNSE Lab also presented their research at Pangborn 2025.

Yunfan Mo gave a talk on the relationship between chemosensory perception and macronutrient choices based on a female cohort study. Her research highlighted the potential of specific carbohydrate, protein, and fat-related sensory stimuli to map macronutrient groups and capture individual dietary patterns. She also presented a poster on the relationship between sleep and chemosensory dysfunction.

Ai Ting Goh presented her research on unpacking attitudes toward plant-based proteins across cultures. Her work provided insights into cultural differences in consumer attitudes toward PBMAs and meat and highlighted the effectiveness of implicit methods in understanding aspects of consumer attitudes. She also presented a poster on stress sweet cravings and snack preferences.

Stephanie C. McLeod presented three posters. One highlighted preliminary finding from her study on plant-based diets and food-related well-being in pregnancy. This research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of plant-based diets and their related changes during pregnancy and to serve as a model for other nutritionally demanding life-stages. Another poster, based on her recent publication, examined knowledge, attitudes and practices of midwives in relation to plant-based diets during pregnancy. She also shared findings from a study investigating the effects of intermittent fasting on cognitive performance in women.

This biennial conference brought together around 1000 delegates from academia and industry to explore advancements in sensory and consumer science. The diverse contributions from Associate Professor Mei Peng and her SENNSE Lab at Pangborn 2025 highlight their growing role in advancing global sensory and nutrition science, bridging fundamental research with applied consumer insights.