compare objects java if

I am trying to get back into Java. I'm attempting to create a simple "wizard". I have two panels that include the following with Jbuttons:

Jpanel1 (fav flavors) apple grapes cherries Jpanel2 (ailment) cold stomachache headache

I was really needing help on how to construct a an "if" statement to get one option from each panel and then display a separate panel (already created) with a solution. Not sure if this is enough information. Any help would be appreciated. Thank You.