Pivot profile: a method for sensory characterization using untrained evaluators

Abstract

In recent years, rapid description techniques have been developed within sensory analysis that allows the use of untrained evaluators or regular consumers. This has the advantage of eliminating training time and thus minimizing the costs involved in forming and maintaining a trained evaluators group. Among these new methods, the Pivot Profile method stands out for its ease of use for consumers. It is based on comparison with a reference and is derived from the free description method, as no descriptor or scale is required for evaluators to use. The following review aims to gather important information regarding this method used for sensory characterization with consumers, focusing on the procedure for its implementation, data processing, statistical analysis, and its advantages and limitations.