Descriptive Analysis

Sensory science introduces a diverse toolbox of methodologies designed to decode the intricate world of sensory attributes. These methodologies are not just analytical tools; they are the key to crafting sensory lexicons, optimising marketing strategies, sensory profiles, and can be combined with consumer data to unveil consumer preferences and more.

  • Check All That Apply (CATA)

    A method in sensory science that uncovers the sensory profile by trained panel, and can be instrumental in shaping sensory lexicons and marketing communication to influence preference and purchasing decisions

  • Rate All That Apply (RATA)

    this method allows a trained panel to rate the intensity of various attributes in a product, providing a detailed sensory profile that captures the nuances, making it a valuable tool for understanding and optimising product characteristics.

  • Sensory Descriptive Analysis

    Sensory descriptive profiling in sensory science is a method where trained panelists systematically evaluate and describe the sensory attributes of a product, such as appearance, aroma, flavour, and texture, providing a detailed and objective profile that aids in product development and quality control.

  • Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA®)

    A standardised method that utiliaes a trained panel to systematically assess and quantify the sensory attributes of a product, providing a comprehensive and numerical description that enables detailed comparisons and insights for product development.

  • Free Choice Profiling

    Allows panelists to describe products using their own words and attributes, facilitating an unstructured and personalised approach to capturing the sensory characteristics of an item.

  • Repertory Grid Method (RGM)

    The Repertory Grid Method in sensory science is a technique that engages consumers in direct comparisons between products, eliciting their personal constructs and perceptions, thereby providing valuable insights into their underlying cognitive structures and preferences.

  • Time Intensity

    A sophisticated method within sensory science that tracks and quantifies the changing intensity of a specific sensory attribute over time, providing vital insights into the dynamic sensory experience of products for targeted enhancement and marketing optimisation.

  • Texture Profile

    Describes the physical characteristics of a product's texture, enabling manufacturers to fine-tune attributes such as hardness, chewiness, or crispiness to meet consumer preferences and market demand.

  • Temporal Sensory Dominance (TSD)

    Analyses and highlights the sequence and duration of dominant sensations experienced by consumers during product consumption, providing insights into the evolving sensory experience over time.

Difference Tests

Have you changed an ingredient, swapped factory or chosen a new raw material supplier? Do you want these changes noticeable or not for the consumer? Does it still taste, feel and smell the same?

We provide an array of difference tests with a trained sensory panel that will evaluate and verify if the sensory experience of your product has changed and how. 

Which method we employ will depend on the product and reason for the evaluation.

  • Pairwise test

    A critical difference test in sensory science, is an analytical approach that compares two products directly to discern subtle distinctions in attributes such as taste, texture, or aroma, providing essential data for businesses to refine and position their offerings effectively in the market.

  • Triangle Test

    Engages the participants to identify an odd product from three samples, where two are identical, and one is different, allowing researchers to detect perceptible variations between products, thereby informing precise adjustments and quality control.

  • Duo-trio Test

    A prominent difference test in sensory science, requires evaluators to match one of two unknown samples to a known reference, providing a robust method for detecting subtle differences between products, essential for product development and quality assurance in the competitive market.

  • Ranking Test

    Involves participants ordering multiple samples based on the intensity of a specific attribute, offering a streamlined way to discern perceptible variations and guide product improvement in today's dynamic consumer landscape.