Food texture evaluation using tooth-shaped sensor and statistic model

Abstract

Food texture is an essential factor in mastication and contributes to our physical and psychological healths. To evaluate the food texture, a food texture sensor and a food texture evaluation method are proposed. The food texture sensor has two sensing elements; magnetic resistance elements and an inductor. The food texture sensor measures time-series force and vibration by the two elements. The feature quantities are extracted from the time-series data and determine the coefficients of the logistic regression model. The response variables of the logistic model are the existence or non-existence of food texture answered in sensory evaluations. The experimental results showed that the logistic regression model has a possibility to evaluate food textures of even unknown foods.