Analysis of Consumer Preference for the Six-Winged Bean Accessions in Support of a Breeding Program

Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L. DC.) is a highly nutritious vegetable with limited market recognition. Progress in its breeding has been slow because of the lack of defined pod quality criteria and low consumer acceptance, which stems from a mismatch between sensory attributes and consumer preferences. Information on preferred accessions and fruit traits is essential for growers and breeders aiming to develop market-oriented varieties. This study aimed to assess the sensory acceptability of winged bean pods as a foundational step toward developing varieties that align with consumer preferences. The research presents novel insights into the application of sensory testing across multiple market locations to better understand consumer preferences; these findings will directly inform future breeding programs aimed at improving marketability. It also emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of local sensory characteristics in similar studies. Pods from six-winged bean accessions were evaluated by 220 untrained respondents across traditional and wholesale markets using 16 sensory attributes. A randomized block design with location as a replication unit was employed. Sensory data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by the least significant difference (LSD) test. Pods from accessions KAN2 and MLN2 received the highest scores for flavor and texture, while KAML was rated highest for appearance and texture. Overall quality was correlated with flavor and texture, but not with appearance. The results indicate that appearance, texture, flavor, and overall quality are key drivers of consumer preference. These findings will serve as a basis for future breeding programs aimed at developing commercially viable winged bean varieties with enhanced sensory traits and broader market acceptance.