New methods to assess sensory responses: a brief review of innovative techniques in sensory evaluation. (February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Torrico, Damir D; Mehta, Annu; Borssato, Amália Bernardes
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in food science. Volume 49(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-02
• Subjects: Food -- Microbiology -- Periodicals; Food -- Analysis -- Periodicals; Food -- Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Food -- Periodicals; Food -- Research -- Periodicals; Nutrition -- Periodicals; Food -- Biotechnology; Food -- Microbiology; Food -- Analysis; Food; Food -- Research; Nutrition; Food Technology -- Periodicals; Food Analysis -- Periodicals; Food Microbiology -- Periodicals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 641.3
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2022.100978
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-7993

Abstract

Abstract : Sensory evaluation incorporates methodologies from different scientific disciplines. Studying humans' reactions to different stimuli, such as foods or beverages, is complex as multiple dimensions are involved in sensory perception. Currently, traditional sensory protocols (discrimination, descriptive, and affective) are heavily employed in the industry and/or academia for testing a wide variety of stimuli. Nonetheless, these methodologies have drawbacks such as physiological and psychological biases when evaluating participants' behaviors and choices. Novel methods have been developed to capture more holistic responses from sensory panels. This brief review article provides a snapshot of these current novel methods. New techniques such as the use of biometrics (facial expressions, heart rate, skin conductance, body temperature, and eye-tracking), virtual environments (virtual and/or augmented reality), and artificial smart senses are being explored as tools to understand the complex nature of human perception to foods and beverages. Highlights: Sensory evaluation incorporates new technologies from different disciplines. Novel methods have been developed to capture holistic sensory responses. Physiological responses can tap into the subconscious behaviors. Virtual environments are being explored to understand perception.