The performance of descriptive panels is typically determined by post-hoc data analysis. Poor panel performance is determined after the fact and arrives too late to help the panel leader in training. The Feedback Calibration Method (FCM®) is an effective method for training descriptive panellists. FCM optimizes proficiency by ensuring efficient panel training.
Training targets can be established from product profiles that provide an objective representation of the underlying sensory characteristics of a group of products. If available to a panel leader, these training targets can be used to calibrate a panel and measure the accuracy of their responses.
Descriptive analysis is one of the most powerful tools available to sensory scientists. However, regardless of the approach being used to analyze the sensory attributes of products, descriptive panels require significant training before the panel members, individually, and the panels collectively, become a reliable sensory instrument. There is great panel-to-panel variability and the training style of panel leaders can have
Descriptive analysis is the most refined method for determining sensory information about the shelf life of products, the manufacturing processes used by competitors, and the attributes that drive consumer preference. The quality of the sensory profile depends largely on the extent to which the sensory panel – the analytical instrument of descriptive analysis – is trained. Calibrating descriptive sensory panels