SENSORY
A Leader’s Guide to Sensory Evaluation in R&D and Quality Control
Discover how sensory evaluation supports food innovation, quality assurance, and consumer preference through data-driven sensory evaluation methods.
Descriptive Analysis for Precision Sensory Profiling
At Mérieux NutriSciences, we utilize the industry-leading Spectrum™ methodology for descriptive analysis. Our panels provide an objective measurement of sensory attributes, delivering a high-resolution map of your product’s flavor, aroma, and texture.
The Spectrum Methodology and Expert Panels
Our panelists undergo over 100 hours of intensive training and must demonstrate proficiency in complex flavor and mouthfeel evaluations before achieving expert status.
- Custom Lexicon Development – Descriptors are developed by evaluating a broad category array, ensuring every relevant attribute is captured. Additional descriptors can be added from peer-reviewed literature or at your specific request.
- Scientific Rigor – Panelists rate intensities on a precise 150-point scale to capture the most subtle nuances.
- Statistical Validation – Every sample is evaluated in duplicate to create a robust data set. We apply Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc mean separation to identify and quantify statistically significant differences between products.
Strategic Applications for Descriptive Analysis
Descriptive analysis provides the technical foundation for data-driven product decisions across the lifecycle:
- New Product Development – Quantify and optimize specific product attributes to hit a target sensory profile.
- Product Drift Prevention – Build comprehensive lexicons and reference samples to ensure long-term consistency.
- Spectrum Method Advantage – Leverage results that are comparable over time to monitor longitudinal product quality.
- Sensitive Product Testing – Specialized protocols for Alcohol, Nicotine, and Dietary Supplements.
Advanced Descriptive Capabilities
We offer flexible panel structures to meet your specific research and development needs:
- Full Trained Expert Panel – Comprehensive Spectrum Method Descriptive Analysis for deep-dive research and detailed profiling.
- Three-Person Consensus Panel – Efficient Spectrum Method screening for rapid product feedback and consensus-based insight.
Food Sensory Resources
INGREDIENTS
Understanding Shelf Life and Stability in Food Products
Explore shelf life and stability in food science. Learn how formulation, packaging, and storage impact safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
SENSORY
Food and Mood: Exploring the Sensory Connection
Discover how sensory perceptions of food and drink can influence mood and explore the science behind emotional connections with what we consume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can descriptive analysis identify the cause of "off-notes" in my product?
Yes. By using a custom-developed lexicon, our panels can quantify the intensity of specific off-notes. When paired with , this helps R&D teams determine if a formula change or ingredient shift is the root cause of a sensory deviation.
Is your panel capable of testing sensitive or regulated products?
Absolutely. We have specialized protocols and trained panels for a variety of sensitive categories, including alcohol, nicotine, and dietary supplements, ensuring compliance and safety throughout the evaluation process.
How does the Spectrum™ method differ from other descriptive analysis techniques?
The Spectrum™ method provides a "numerical map" of a product using a standardized 150-point scale. Unlike other methods that rely on relative intensities, Spectrum™ uses absolute anchors, allowing your data to be compared across different panels and over long-term longitudinal studies.
How do you ensure the statistical validity of the sensory data?
We use a robust data-entry and analysis framework. All samples are evaluated in duplicate, and we apply Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and mean separation post-hoc analysis to ensure that any identified differences are statistically significant and actionable.
Ready to quantify your product’s sensory profile with the Spectrum™ methodology? Our technical team is available to help you design a study that meets your specific R&D or Quality objectives.