## 5 Conclusions  
The present research delved into the intricate dynamics of consumer behavior, specifically focusing on how visual attention influences purchasing decisions related to three varieties of apples with varying degrees of defects. Utilizing the eye-tracking method, the research explored the effects of the severity of defects, apple variety, and cultural background on visual attention metrics. The findings revealed that while cultural differences between participants from Hungary and China did influence gazing patterns, the variety of the apple did not exhibit a significant impact. This suggests that irrespective of the type of apple--whether Golden Delicious Green, Golden Delicious Yellow, or Idared--what primarily capture and hold consumer attention are the defects present in the apple. Our area metric, quantifying defectiveness, emerged as a critical determinant of visual attention, compellingly illustrating how even minor visual defects could significantly influence consumer behavior. In addition, we also introduced the concept of a \"Threshold of Rejection\", shedding light on the limits of consumer tolerance towards defects in apples. When the percentage of apples with appearance defects went beyond 10%, the willingness to pay sharply declined from 80% to 25%. If the defect rate escalated to 40%, and the rate of repurchase dwindled to a mere 10%. Our polynomial regression formula further quantified the relationship between the percentage of apple defects and the likelihood of repurchase. This mathematical representation could serve as a useful tool for industry stakeholders, providing a predictive framework to anticipate consumer behavior based on the visual quality of the apples. Importantly, our model offers a pragmatic approach to reducing food waste. By enabling early screening of apples, a rejection rate higher than 75% could be repurposed for alternative uses such as in the production of jams and other culinary products. This approach not only reduces food wastage but also adds value to the agricultural supply chain. This study's sample was predominantly young and drawn from a university setting, which may limit generalizability. Future research should broaden demographic profiles (including older and more diverse populations) and explore other fruit or vegetable categories. Additionally, informational interventions (e.g., eco-labels, sustainability messages, etc.) and psychophysiological measures (e.g., GSR, heart rate, etc.) could deepen the understanding of the emotional underpinnings of consumer acceptance. Finally, the study focused on a limited range of apple varieties and defect levels; exploring a wider range of products and conditions would enhance the robustness of these findings. Future research should broaden demographic profiles, explore other produce categories, and consider informational interventions (e.g., eco-labels) that may influence acceptance. Employing additional psychophysiological measures could further clarify emotional responses to imperfect produce, guiding more resilient and sustainable food systems. In conclusion, while culture shapes the pattern of visual attention and defectiveness determines its intensity, variety appears less influential at the initial decision-making stage. The polynomial model offers a predictive framework for defect-driven behavior, and recognizing these complex interactions and thresholds can support more efficient, sustainable marketing strategies that benefit both consumers and the environment. In conclusion, this study delved into understanding the interplay between cultural differences, apple varieties, and the defectiveness of apples in shaping visual attention metrics. Given the pivotal role of defects in capturing attention, this finding can have broad implications, especially in quality control, marketing, and consumer behavior research.