Proposing a ranking descriptive sensory method

The objective of this work was to propose an alternative use to ranking method, as descriptive test, here named Ranking Descriptive Analysis (RDA). RDA was compared with Free-Choice Profiling (FCP) and Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA). Four chocolate puddings were used as samples. A group of assessors performed FCP. Another group of selected assessors developed a list of attributes and their corresponding definitions. These assessors were divided into two groups: a panel was trained to perform the QDA and other panel was familiarised with the RDA procedures. Sample discrimination was similar using the three techniques. The RDA panel showed better consensus than the other two ones. The QDA showed the best correlation with the instrumental analysis of color and texture. Despite the larger number of assessors, RDA has the advantage of minor costs associated with the requirement of fewer sessions and a smaller amount of product than required by other techniques. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.