Environment for Sensory Evaluation

Environment for Sensory Evaluation
One of the most important activities in any laboratory in the sensory assessment of samples, be they of aromatic chemicals, spices, natural extracts, flavorings or products containing these materials based on his reactions to their smell and flavor.

The methods used are frequently taken for granted as being part of normal experience but there are certain well based precepts that should be followed if the evaluation is to be effective. Perhaps the most important and yet the least observed if these is the need for complete concentration and an absence of distractions. The environment in which sensory judgment is reached is the most important. The essential requirements and optimum layouts of facilities suitable for sensory assessment of a wide variety of raw materials and end products also is the important factor.

Ultimately, the facilities provided depend on the budgetary importance that any company or organizations places on this respect of its technical program. Even if the facilities fall short of the optimum, it is usually possible to ensure that the test conditions are as natural as possible, that the assessor is at ease but not the over comfortable, and is quiet and free from external distractions, other provisions, such as air-conditioning and controllable lighting though desirable, are not strictly essential.

All too frequently, even, these minimum conditions are not available and much evaluation is carried out at the laboratory bench with other normal routines progressing in the immediate vicinity. This sort of environment is far from satisfactory for the making of a considered judgment in sensory attributes particularly where highly flavorful products are involved.
Environment for Sensory Evaluation

Product Recall: Hazard Evaluation and Recall Strategy

Product Recall: Hazard Evaluation and Recall Strategy
Hazard Evaluation
An important step in recall procedure is to evaluate the existing hazard to determine if a recall is warranted. The company or regulatory agency should answer the following:

• Has disease or injury already occurred?

• Could exposure to humans be a health hazard?

• Asses hazard according to population of greatest risk (children, hospital, retirement communities, etc)

• Degrees of seriousness if exposed?

• Likelihood of occurrence (exposure)?

• Consequence of hazard (immediate or long term)?

• Classification of recall I, II, III

Recall Strategy
All companies should have a detailed plan to follow should the hazard evaluation warrant a recall. Some critical elements to consider in planning recall strategies are:

• The depth of recall (warehouse, wholesale, retails, consumer levels).

• Whether or not to issue a public warning, to what signet of the public the warning would be directed, and through what media (general, newspaper, TV, radio or though special groups: doctors, etc.)

• Method of recall effectiveness checks to determine how many have received the recall notice.

Product Recall: Hazard Evaluation and Recall Strategy