Consumer perception of whole watermelons.

ABSTRACT

There are many varieties of watermelons, providing distinct external and internal sensory attributes. This study used an online survey (n = 700) and focus groups (n = 25) to investigate consumer perception of whole watermelons. Rind color, sound of the melon, size, and price were the most important attributes for consumers when selecting a whole watermelon. Freshness was the most important whole watermelon characteristic, and watermelon freshness/quality was driven by sweetness, crispness, and juiciness. Consumers preferred seedless watermelons that had a light rind with dark green stripes, red flesh, an oval/oblong shape, firm and crisp flesh, a weight of approximately 2.2-5.5 kg, and labeling that described them as fresh, juicy, and sweet. Two consumer clusters were identified from quantitative survey data and were also representative of focus group participants: value consumers and watermelon enthusiasts. Watermelon enthusiasts were differentiated by a higher value for claims including local, product of USA, sustainably farmed, and organic. Watermelon purchase is quality driven consumers will pay more for guaranteed sweetness and crispness. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The ideal watermelon for all consumers is one that is dark green with stripes, is medium sized and oblong in shape, has a minimal rind-to-flesh ratio, and boasts dark, vibrant red flesh that is sweet, crisp, and juicy. All consumers want a better guarantee on watermelon quality because it is hard to predict sensory quality when selecting a melon. This study demonstrated the intrinsic and external drivers of liking for fresh watermelons and summarized a consumer watermelon purchase and consumption journey map that can guide further research and development of watermelons and provide insights on how to increase watermelon sales.