Sensory evaluation is defined as a scientific discipline used to evoke, measure, analyze and interpret reactions that are perceived by the senses of sight, taste, smell, touch, and hearing (Stone & Sidel 1993).

• If a raw material in my production process is replaced by one that is more affordable, will it affect the sensory characteristics of the product?
• I developed a product that competes with the market leader; are both products indistinguishable from the sensory point of view?

We often want to know if two products are significantly different or not. This question, and many more, can be quickly answered by the appropriate discriminant sensory test. Among the many existing methods are paired tests, duo-trio tests, triangle tests, three-alternative forced choice tests (3AFC), etc. Depending on the product that requires evaluation and the question that has to be answered, the most appropriate test and design must be chosen. The Centro de Aromas y Sabores has trained panels for several classes of tests. Please contact us in order to find out your needs and perform the appropriate test that will answer your questions.

• If I want to introduce a new product to the international market, what are the sensory characteristics of this and competing products?

The sensory profiles allow to obtain objective information about the sensory attributes of a broad range of products. Several methods allow us to find answers to this and many other challenges. The Centro de Aromas has trained panels for the objective characterization of products such as wines, liquors, and honey, and has the capacity to characterize any product required. To this end, and depending on the needs of each company or industry, different methods can be chosen, such as flavor profile, quantitative descriptive sensory analysis, or the free choice profile. Counting with a cutting-edge laboratory, stable trained panels, collection of reference standards, and statistical software among other tools, allows to optimize the response times and resources, and ensuring that the results are useful for your company. For further details, please contact us, so that you can know the possibilities that we offer, depending on your needs and objectives.

• Which level of acceptability does my new product have in a certain market segment?

Success depends on the levels of satisfaction and of repeat customers. Determine the acceptance level and to understand the preferences are valuable tools to guarantee the success of your business. At the Centro de Aromas we have the capacity to design and carry out the necessary studies for establishing the acceptability of certain a product, compare it with the competition, and establish which are the sensory characteristics that the consumers like or dislike in your products, compared to the competing products. Please contact us in order to know your challenges and to develop together an appropriate study.