Dynamic Texture Analyzer Addresses Poor Sensory Panel / Instrument Correlation
Annual Meeting of the Institute of Food Technologists, Book of Abstracts, 44, (1996)

J.C. CONTI, E.R. Strope, D.J. Rohde, L.D. Spence

Dynatek Dalta Scientific Instruments, PO Box 254, Galena, MO 65656

A dynamic texture analyzer has been developed that addresses difficulties in generating information that correlates instrument results with sensory panel evaluations. Using electromagnetic actuation and computer control this analyzer allows the food technologist to define the load versus time or dimension versus time parameters of interest. The instrument can work in the compression and tensile mode simultaneously so that, for example, hardness and adhesiveness can be evaluated each cycle. Because the instrument is computer controlled, it is ideal as a cyclic testing device and several parameters can be automatically calculated. For example, by defining the compressive properties of a food that is ready for swallowing, the instrument can repeatedly chew food until the desired compressive properties are obtained. By monitoring the total energy required to attain this state, chewiness can be evaluated. By testing in a flexible and resilient chamber that returns the food products to the path of the sample chewing device, water or other lubricants can be added to the experimental chamber to evaluate how the incorporation of these solvents or lubricants impact the chewiness of the sample. Gumminess can be addressed in the same manner.

This dynamic texture analyzer can run up to eight independent stations making it and the technologists more cost and time effective. At its most sensitive setting the instrument can measure loads down to 23mg and displacements down to 1 micron; higher limits are available. This analyzer generates useful data for correlation with sensory panel evaluations, for example, true hardness, stickiness or springiness.

The dynamic texture analyzer will be described and data presented.

KEY WORDS--texture analysis, dynamic, multi-station