Palatability studies as influenced by consumer demographics and chevon characteristics

Abstract

Chevon is utilized as a major meat source in many parts of the world but is consumed mostly by certain ethnic populations (Hispanics, Arabs, Indians, Pakistanis and groups from the West Indies and Africa) in the U.S. The sensory attributes of chevon from goats of different ages, weights, sex and body conformation were evaluated by a consumer panel with previous chevon consumption experiences. Tenderness scores were not affected (p> 0.05) by panelist age, sex or ethnic grouping. Income and education influenced perception of tenderness and flavor (p< 0.05). Flavor was affected (p< 0.05) by age (kid or yearling) of male goats while acceptability was affected by live weight classification (p< 0.05). Chevon was moderately accepted by a majority of the panelists.