Consumer Panel FAQ's

Please read our Consumer Panel Frequently Asked Questions.

Q: What is a consumer panel?

A consumer panel is where we ask consumers to blind taste food and drinks and tell us their opinions on.

Q: Can anyone be a panellist?

A: Yes, no experience is required to become a taste panellist. However, we do ask that you have no food based allergies or dietary restrictions. This is critical, as we cannot absolutely guarantee the absence of any food-base allergens. Product(s) can also be changed/substituted at short notice. Our Code of Conduct also prevents us from accepting those currently employed within the marketing/market research industry.

Q: What type of food and drink products can I expect to taste at a panel?

A: We test a range of different products including alcohol. The invite for the panel will describe the product you are tasting so you can apply to test products you are comfortable with tasting.

Q: How will I be contacted?

A: You will be invited to apply for consumer panels by email and successful applicants will be notified shortly after if they have received a place.

Q: How long are the consumer panels?

A: They can be various lengths of time, the invite for a panel will clearly state how long we expect the panel to be.

Q: Where do the taste panels take place?

A: Most taste panels take place at Queen Margaret University, Musselburgh, in our purpose-built Sensory Suite on the third floor (Room 3160). We also carry out at-home testing where you would need to collect samples from the University and at an environment location.

Q: How do I get to Queen Margaret University?

A: We encourage you to travel to campus via public transport wherever possible, although we appreciate that this is not appropriate for all participants. Find out more information about travelling to QMU.

Q: Do I have to pay for parking at Queen Margaret University?

A: No, when you receive a consumer panel confirmation email please respond with your registration number and we will book you in to the carpark. Please arrive in plenty time for the consumer panel starting as the car park is busy.

Q: Do I receive payment for taking part in a consumer panel?

A: We give you a gift voucher after you have completed the consumer panel as a thank you for attending. Gift voucher amounts vary by duration of test.

Q: How do I apply to become a panellist?

A: Please email consumerpanels@qmu.ac.uk for an application form.

Q: What happen after I have filled in the application form?

A: You will receive a confirmation you have been added to the mailing list and be contacted when tests are available to you.

Q: What do I do if I want to be removed from the mailing list?

A: Please email Consumerpanels@qmu.ac.uk if you would like to unsubscribe from the mailing list.