Effect of the Pattern of a Blue Plate on the Appetite for Japanese Food

Abstract

  A ranking and rating questionnaire was distributed in order to compare composition photographs of Japanese food on plant, animal, scenery, and geometric design-patterned plates with a blue-proportion of approximately 40%, to determine which design looks most delicious, and the compatibility of plate pattern and food. Results found that plant patterns were compatible with all foods. Then, the grape and flower pattern sizes were changed to make large and small patterned plates, and their compatibility with Japanese food was investigated in a similar manner. Results found that larger patterns were compatible with most foods. It is thought that since there is a clear distinction between the white portions and the blue patterns, the colors of the food are set off to best advantage, making the food appear delicious. Further, it was found that in cases where there was a large amount of food it was important that the pattern be big enough to be seen.