Preferences for pomegranates, including some novel pomegranate varieties,
were evaluated using an experimental auction and nonhypothetical preference
ranking mechanism. Additional information on the taste and health benefits
of the products was provided to mimic the information-gathering process on
novel products. Product familiarity, product information, and reference
prices were key factors in explaining willingness to pay for the included
novel products. Results from the auction and nonhypothetical preference
ranking procedures were divergent. Furthermore, interactions were detected
between information treatments and product characteristics.