Why Measure Texture?

Texture analysis is the mechanical testing of food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, adhesives and other consumer products in order to measure their physical properties.  

It is an important attribute in that it affects processing and handling, influences habits, and affects shelf-life and consumer acceptance of products.

Because of its adaptability, texture analysis has become commonplace in many industries to measure a specific or range of characteristics or properties relating to the way a material behaves, breaks, flows, sticks, bends, etc. Typical texture and physical properties than can be measured include: crispiness, stickiness, brittleness, spreadability, chewiness, firmness and consistency.

Major manufacturers routinely apply texture analysis techniques both in new product development and as part of quality control in all stages of manufacture, carrying out a wide range of measurements to analyse raw materials or excipients, semi-finished goods, packaging and finished products. 

It is a cost-effective method to determine the effects of raw material or excipient quality or the adjustment of formulation or processing variables on end product acceptability – whether this is to measure the 'mouth feel' properties of food, the flow properties of creams and pastes, the break or bend of a product or the tackiness of adhesives.

Where problematic textural issues occur during storage or transportation, texture analysis can provide a useful assessment. It may also prove to be an effective means of comparison with competitive products, or where claims substantiation is necessary to take a technical pro-active stance in your market. 

Successful production and quality control depends on the ability to measure and test at the various stages of production of a product. If you can’t measure it, you can’t control it! It will certainly prove an indispensable tool when you need to quantify the texture or overall physical properties of your 'gold standard' product for future comparison in manufacture – the key to maintaining consistent textural quality!

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For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplus texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

No-one understands texture analysis like we do!

To discuss your specific test requirements, click here...