Flash Profile and CATA Method for sensory characterization with untrained assessors

Abstract

Sensory characterization is used to obtain a detailed qualitative and quantitative description of the sensory characteristics of products. Traditionally trained assessors have been used for this purpose; however, methodologies have emerged that allow the use of untrained assessors or consumers. This review discourses two methods used for sensory characterization with consumers who use the evaluation of individual attributes: Flash Profile and CATA method. The procedures for its execution, data processing and analysis are described, as well as the advantages and limitations of each of them. In general, the Flash Profile and CATA methods are simple, fast, and easy to execute for both the test director and the consumers; however, they require more complex statistical processing than that required for conventional descriptive methods with trained assessors.