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Purpose The purpose of this study is to provide a systematic synthesis of empirical studies using galvanic skin response (GSR), with the aim of mapping theoretical frameworks, experiential contexts, constructs, and methodological approaches in food and service-related settings relevant to hospitality and tourism. Design/methodology/approach A systematic review was conducted using the Scopus database. Following a structured screening process based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 43 empirical studies were retained for analysis. Bibliometric techniques were employed to examine publication trends and keyword structures, and the TCCM framework was applied to synthesize conceptual and methodological patterns across the literature. Findings The findings reveal a fragmented yet growing body of research characterized by diverse theoretical foundations and experiential contexts. GSR is primarily employed to capture emotional arousal and implicit engagement, particularly within food, dining, and service-related experiences, often in combination with complementary physiological and behavioral measures. Methodologically, the literature is dominated by laboratory-based experimental designs, with relatively limited use of field settings and standardized electrodermal measurement protocols. Research limitations/implications The review is limited to English-language empirical articles indexed in Scopus and is dominated by laboratory-based designs, which may constrain generalizability. Nevertheless, the findings underline the need for greater methodological standardization, increased use of field settings and stronger integration of GSR with experiential and behavioral outcomes in future research. Practical implications From a practical perspective, the review suggests that GSR can support the design and evaluation of tourism and hospitality experiences by capturing implicit emotional arousal that may not be fully accessible through self-report measures alone. Social implications The use of GSR to capture implicit emotional responses may support more human-centered approaches to the design and evaluation of food and service experiences. Originality/value This study offers a structured synthesis of empirical research using GSR to investigate emotional arousal and experiential engagement, integrating bibliometric analysis with the TCCM framework to systematically map dominant research patterns, methodological tendencies and key gaps in the literature.