The idea is simple; blind tasting kits are sent out to sensory panels and individuals around the world at specified times, used to evaluate and train panels abilities through a series of different tests.  Results are submitted to FlavorActiV powerful online database, and immediately a detailed breakdown of individual or panel’s performance is calculated. The analysis results can be broken down and presented in a multitude of ways, and for sensory panels and multi-location organizations detailed demographic information is stored on every taster to increase understanding and learning. Quick and easy to use, FlavorActiV’s Taster Validation program, is an incredibly powerful tool to understanding what is needed to maintain the quality and calibration of tasters.

Standard programs are two validation sessions per year, however single session are able to be purchased.  There are three Taster Validation tests to support training and calibration to flavor standards:

• Flavor Identification – tests ability to identify flavors
• IN/OUT – tests ability to identify defects outside of product quality specification
• Rank Rating – tests ability to scale the intensity of flavors

The benefits are numerous, here are just some of them:

• Calibrating to flavor standards and validating tasters performance increases confidence in the sensory quality of green coffee purchases and finished products for customers.
• Comprehensive feedback from across the whole organization or compared to other tasters
• Taster validation leads to focused training which is directed and specific to the panel or induvial tasters needs. 
• Panels and individuals learn their strengths and weaknesses and can increase their skills accordingly
• Training encourages staff retention and is attractive to new sensory panelists and tasters.
• Training across an organization improves staff loyalty and product awareness

At regular intervals determined by the customer, a proficiency testing Taster Validation pack will be sent out to all sites containing all of the tools needed to test and validate a sensory panel.

All customers are assigned an appropriate Global Sensory Manager (in terms of location and languages spoken) who will provide additional guidance and follow up training as required.

Each Taster Validation Packs provides everything required to run a sensory session:

• GMP Taster Validation Flavor Standards in blind color coded capsules
• Easy-to-use, multilingual, internet-based software for data entry, result processing and feedback of your results
• Answer sheets in a number of languages

Individual taster or sensory panel shall have available:

• Quality water for dilution
• Pitchers for mixing the flavor standards and cup for tasting
• Designated place the follows Good Sensory Practices (GSP) to conduct the test
• Computer with internet access to records the scores in FlavorActiV

FlavorActiV – Taster Validation Process