Comparison of the performance of the same panel with different training levels: Flash profile versus descriptive analysis

Abstract

Flash Profile (FP) has recently been gaining popularity as a rapid descriptive profiling method. Many studies have shown that this method reduces cost and time compared with traditional sensory descriptive analysis. The objective of this study was to compare the performance of the same panel, with different levels of training, using the FP and Descriptive Analysis (DA) method respectively. The untrained panel (UP) generated descriptors and ranked each sample on each attribute by the FP method. Then the semi-trained panel (SP, 12 h of training) evaluated samples again using the FP method with written definitions. Finally, the samples were analyzed by the DA method by the trained panel (TP, 30 h of training). Results revealed that the SP-FP resulted in similar terms being used to describe products and product configurations as the TP-DA. Overall results support the validity of SP-FP and suggest its potential for industrial use, when a timely and cost-efficient description of a product is required and the product already has a lexicon.