Seo-Jin Chung to Deliver Invited Lecture on Sweetness Perception and Healthier Eating

The Sensory Science Center at the U of A Division of Agriculture will host Professor Seo-Jin Chung for an invited lecture as part of the Distinguished Sensory Lecture Series. The lecture will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, in room D1/D2 of the Food Science Building, 2650 N. Young Ave., Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Chung, a professor and director of the Sensory Perception and Consumer Science Lab at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea, specializes in sensory science and consumer research, focusing on how sensory perception, consumer psychology and eating contexts influence food preferences and acceptance.

Her research explores how healthier and more sustainable foods can be developed to appeal to consumers. Her areas of expertise include sweetness perception, sweetener interactions, sugar and sodium reduction, acquired liking, cross-cultural consumer behavior and sensory evaluation methodologies. Before entering academia, Chung worked as a sensory scientist in the food industry.

Her lecture, titled "Measuring Sweetness, Nudging Saltiness: A Sensory Journey Toward Healthier Eating," will explore how sensory science can contribute to healthier eating behaviors. The presentation will highlight sweetness measurement and perception, interactions among sweeteners and sensory approaches to reducing sugar and sodium while maintaining consumer acceptance.

In addition to her research, Chung is dedicated to mentoring young scientists and fostering collaboration within the sensory science community.

"Professor Chung's lecture will offer an invaluable opportunity for students, faculty, researchers and industry professionals to gain insights into how sensory science can support the development of healthier and more appealing foods," said Han-Seok Seo, Tyson Endowed Professor in Food Sensory Science and director of the Sensory Science Center.

This event is open to the public, and light refreshments will be provided.