An Overview of Proficiency Testing in Sensory Analysis

Chantal Gilbert

Sensory Statistician

Department of Consumer & Sensory Sciences

Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association

Chipping Campden

Gloucestershire, UK

Global trade and international standards have helped contribute in part to an increased prevalence of laboratory accreditation, resulting in a need for laboratories to demonstrate their reliability and competency in performing sensory evaluation techniques.

Proficiency tests are well established in many scientific disciplines. They allow an independent body to measure and demonstrate the consistency and comparability of a laboratory’s test results with other similar laboratories. Methods of conducting proficiency testing found in other analytical fields do not easily extend to sensory evaluation, due to the relative nature of the quantitative information gathered when using a sensory panel as a measuring instrument.

As part of the EU-funded research project ‘Profisens’, proficiency testing procedures were developed for two types of objective sensory test methods: ranking and descriptive profiling. This research led to development of international guidelines for proficiency testing in sensory analysis (CCFRA, Guideline No. 35, 2001).

Since the results of this research were published, regular proficiency testing schemes have been offered in conjunction with the European Sensory Network. The proficiency test for ranking is well established, and has been successful in demonstrating a laboratory’s performance in performing this task. The proficiency test for descriptive profiling, although also ready to use, is currently undergoing further research by the ESN in relation to the selection of test materials for the procedure.

This talk will provide an overview of proficiency testing procedures for sensory evaluation, criteria for measuring performance, challenges encountered in applying proficiency testing to sensory methods, and benefits of taking part in proficiency testing schemes.

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