J.C. Pfeiffer, E. Kapparis
Campden & Chorleywood Food Research Association, UK
j.pfeiffer@campden.co.uk
The role of a fully trained, descriptive sensory panel is extremely valuable in the food industry, helping both companies and their clients to understand product sensory characteristics in an objective and scientific format. However, for the descriptive panelists to maintain the ability to evaluate products as an ‘analytical tool’, investment into ongoing training, calibration and monitoring is required. Just like a sensitive piece of equipment, there are a variety of parameters which may impinge on their performance, including sensory ability, physiological factors and most importantly motivation and psychological issues.
The aim of this two year study was the creation and implementation of an innovative sensory program that formally identifies and tracks overall panel quality over time. In addition, we wanted to develop a transparent and objective measure of each individual’s sensory work ability against a set of business criteria defined as Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s), to ensure that a panelist’s skills were of an acceptable standard. This easily applicable procedure is based on classical testing methodologies such as basic taste threshold and odor recognition using simple and complex food systems. It focuses on a panelist’s inherent/physiological ability to detect, recognize and discriminate specific sensory sensations, rather than looking at panel performance measures after product evaluation. Performance indicators were created for each test along with formulations, design, frequency, scoring and corrective action settings. A structured and cyclic timetable of testing guaranteed continuity in output regardless of current and future staff changes.
Overall, this program is seen as a critical and necessary investment into the quality and longevity of a descriptive panel, ensuring consistency and reliability of sensory ability. Particular emphasis will be given to the variety of benefits resulting from these implementations, both from a panelist’s and an organization’s perspective.
