Effects of material and softness of the rim of cups on flavor perception

Abstract

Recently, some researchers have shown that flavor perception varies based on the material and texture of the entire drinking container. However, no research has explicitly focused on how changes in the material and softness of rim of cups affect flavor perception. For example, the lower lip contacts tableware and cutlery during mastication, suggesting that tactile sensations on it might contribute to flavor perception; however, this area remains unexplored. Our study investigates how the material and the firmness of a rim of a cup affect flavor perception based on prior research that indicated that flavor perception can be affected by the weight, thickness, material, and texture of drinking containers. Rims of cups with identical thicknesses but differing materials and softness levels were designed. These rims of cups were attached to 3D-printed cups whose holders’ textures, weights, and thicknesses were standardized. Our results indicated that both flavor perception and the sensation of beverage's temperature are affected by the material and softness of rim of cups. Additionally, the impact of these variables on flavor perception varied with different types of beverages. Based on these findings, it is concluded that using a cold and hard rim of cups is optimal for consuming beverages.