service Descriptive research

In-depth insight into the unique characteristics of products

Descriptive research is all about mapping the sensory properties of products. This type of research uses our trained expert panel, which specializes in objectively evaluating and quantifying attributes within sensory aspects such as taste, smell, texture and appearance. This methodology gives you in-depth insight into the unique characteristics of your products and possibly those of your competitor, which allows you to make strategic choices to optimize quality and ensure consistency. You will gain more insight into how ingredient and process changes affect sensory attributes, so that you can develop targeted products that better match consumer preferences.

The process starts with a series of training sessions in which the panel members become familiar with your products and their sensory properties. During these training courses, a shared ‘language’ is developed to describe the products, with specific attributes being identified. The number of training courses is determined by the complexity of the products, the desired level of detail and the customer’s budget. Panel members learn to assess in a standardized way and to reach as much agreement as possible about the properties of the products. When the panel is fully prepared, the final measurements take place. During these measurements, the panel members independently assess the products, with a duplicate measurement being carried out for each product. This ensures robust and reliable results, allowing you to profile and improve your products with confidence.

What makes Essensor
unique to you?

Accurate and detailed product profiles

Our expert panel uses a standardized methodology to analyze your products. With attention to even the smallest nuances, sensory properties are captured in detail. This provides a complete picture of the unique features of the product, allowing you to implement targeted improvements that make your product distinctive.

Combination of expert and consumer insights

Essensor combines the detailed results of the expert panel with the hedonic ratings of the consumer panel. With techniques such as external preference mapping and unfolding segmentation analysis, you gain insight into what distinguishes your product and why consumers appreciate it. This combined approach reveals which sensory attributes contribute to preferences of specific target groups. This not only helps you with product optimization, but also with identifying new market opportunities and strengthening your market position.

Reliable results for strategic decisions

The combination of thorough training, standardized protocols and duplicate measurements ensures results that are reliable and reproducible. This data provides you with a solid basis for making strategic decisions that contribute to the long-term success of your product.