Understanding Malaysian consumers perception and acceptability of plant-based alternatives to chicken: Do texture, taste, and environmental impact matter?

Plant-based alternatives (PBAs) are becoming increasingly popular in the market as a result of environmental sustainability and consumer demand. However, perceptions of Malaysian consumers, especially among meat eaters, on the PBAs remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the sensory profiles, prevalence, and consumer acceptance of five PBAs, specifically soy-based alternatives. A total of 46 participants were asked to taste and rate a chicken nugget (control) and five PBAs using a five-point hedonic scale and a check-all-that-apply question. An open-ended comment section on PBAs was also included in the questionnaire. The hedonics scores and sensory properties of all PBAs varied significantly with the control (p