But University of Otago food science senior lecturer and researcher Dr Mei Peng aims to change that after receiving a Fulbright New Zealand 2024 Scholar Award.
The award is worth up to $61,000 for academics, artists and professionals to study and/or lecture at a United States institution of their choosing.
Dr Peng said she would split her time between the University of California (Davis) and Washington State University (Pullman), where she would study parental decision-making on plant-based food choices.
"I will be collaborating with my research hosts to explore parents’ perceptions and attitudes towards innovative plant-based foods, investigating how these may impact children’s food choices and consumption patterns.
"We’re forever trying to improve vegetable intake in children, so we’re looking at innovative plant-based foods, like vegan patties."
She will spend four months in the United States, starting in late August.
Dr Peng said she was honoured to be recognised for her research contribution to the field of sensory nutrition.
"I feel like I’m joining an elite club," she said.
"Working alongside some of the top researchers in my field presents an exciting opportunity to delve into a timely and significant research topic.
"I am excited about the opportunity this award presents to connect with fellow scholars from the United States, enabling us to exchange valuable cultural perspectives and approaches that will enrich our collective understanding and further our research collaboration in sensory science."
Dr Peng is one of seven New Zealand researchers awarded Fulbright New Zealand scholarships for their studies, including indigenous language, neurodivergent learners and young adult justice.
