Understanding the texture and properties of silk and spider silk using a Texture Analyser

Silk and spider silk are two extraordinary materials that have captured the fascination of scientists and researchers for decades. Both possess unique properties and structures, making them highly valuable in various industries. To gain a deeper understanding of their textures and properties, scientists have turned to innovative tools such as a Texture Analyser. This device enables researchers to quantify and compare the physical characteristics of different materials, providing valuable insights into their structural properties and behaviour.

Understanding the texture and properties of cartilage using a Texture Analyser for biomedical research

Understanding the texture and properties of cartilage is crucial in biomedical research, as it can have a significant impact on the development of treatments for conditions such as osteoarthritis and other joint-related diseases. One useful tool for examining these properties is a Texture Analyser, which allows researchers to measure and quantify various characteristics of cartilage samples. Cartilage is a connective tissue found in many parts of the body, including the joints, ears, and nose. It provides support, cushioning, and flexibility to these areas. However, cartilage can undergo significant changes due to aging, injury, or disease, leading to decreased functionality and pain in affected individuals.

Investigating the texture and physical properties of biocompatible materials using a Texture Analyser

The field of medical research is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology leading to the development of novel materials for medical applications. Biocompatible materials, in particular, have gained significant attention due to their ability to interact safely with living tissues. They are widely used in various medical applications such as implants, scaffolds for tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, and prosthetics. These materials are designed to mimic the properties of natural tissues, ensuring optimal integration with the human body.

Investigating the Texture and Properties of Bio-Inspired Materials using Texture Analysis

Bio-inspired materials are substances that mimic natural materials found in organisms, such as bone, shells, and silk, to name a few. These materials have gained significant attention in recent years due to their desirable properties, such as high strength, lightweight, and environmentally friendly nature. Scientists and engineers are keen on studying these materials to understand their unique properties and develop innovative applications in various industries. One approach to investigate bio-inspired materials is through texture analysis, which allows us to determine their physical characteristics and properties in a detailed and quantitative manner.

The use of texture analysis in developing new materials for soft robotics

The field of soft robotics has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to revolutionise various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, fruit harvesting and entertainment. Unlike traditional rigid robots, soft robots are made from flexible and deformable materials, enabling them to interact with delicate objects and operate safely in human environments. However, developing new materials with desirable properties for soft robotics poses significant challenges. That's where texture analysis comes into play.

A Texture Analyser gives a reliable way to test the mechanical (and sensorial) properties of products by applying a choice of compression, tension, extrusion, adhesion or bending tests to measure a product’s physical properties e.g. toughness, bite force or firmness.

Understanding the texture and properties of bone using a Texture Analyser

Understanding the texture and properties of bone is crucial in biomedical research, as it helps in identifying diseases, developing therapies, and designing medical devices. In the veterinary world, bone property measurements are used to inform on animal ageing and the effect of diet.  Researchers rely on various techniques and tools to study bone texture and properties, one of which is the use of a Texture Analyser.

A Texture Analyser is a sophisticated scientific instrument used in biomedical research to measure and analyse the physical properties of materials, including bone. It allows researchers to understand how different factors such as density, porosity, and composition affect the mechanical behaviour of bone. By analysing these properties, researchers can gain insights into bone structure and function, which ultimately helps in diagnosing and treating bone-related diseases.

Understanding the texture and properties of dental composites using a Texture Analyser

Dental composites are widely used in restorative dentistry to repair damaged or decayed teeth. These materials have evolved over the years to mimic natural tooth structure and provide durability, aesthetics, and strength. However, it is crucial for dental professionals to have an in-depth understanding of the texture and properties of dental composites to ensure successful restorations. 



A Texture Analyser is a sophisticated scientific instrument that measures the mechanical properties of materials, including their texture, hardness, elasticity, and adhesiveness. It utilises a probe or a set of probes to exert controlled forces on the material and record the corresponding responses. This instrument is widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, packaging, and cosmetics, to assess the quality and consistency of products. In dentistry, a Texture Analyser can be extremely beneficial in evaluating the performance of dental composites and restorative materials.

Using a Texture Analyser in gait analysis research

Why is gait analysis important?

Gait analysis, the study of human motion patterns during walking and running, holds multifaceted significance. Medically, it aids in diagnosing neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, guiding rehabilitation, and customising orthopaedic solutions like orthotics or prosthetics. In sports, athletes harness it to enhance performance and reduce injury risks, while footwear designers use it to create biomechanically supportive shoes. Beyond healthcare and sports, gait analysis plays roles in forensics as a potential identifier, in robotics and animation to simulate human-like movement, and in research to prevent falls among the elderly. Its diverse applications span from medical interventions to innovations in entertainment and technology.

Pasta: The application of texture analysis on the latest developments

What are the new ingredient and product ideas in pasta and noodle product research, development and production and how can a Texture Analyser be applied?

The pasta and noodle industry continually evolves to meet consumer demands, dietary needs, and culinary trends and sustainability concerns. Here are some of the newer ingredient and product ideas in pasta and noodle research, development, and production and a typical academic reference to show how the Texture Analyser has already being applied:

How a Texture Analyser be used in the development of food for spaceflight

Why is texture important in spaceflight food?

Texture is an important aspect of spaceflight food for several reasons:

Food texture plays a critical role in the palatability of food. In space, astronauts are often under high levels of stress and can experience a decreased sense of taste and smell due to the microgravity environment. Therefore, food that has an appealing texture can help to enhance the overall sensory experience and encourage astronauts to consume enough calories to maintain their energy and health. Moreover, texture can also affect the psychological well-being of astronauts. Eating is a social activity that can help to reduce stress and improve mood. In space, where astronauts are in a confined environment for long periods of time, the texture of food can play an important role in maintaining the psychological well-being of the crew.

The Sensory Importance of Touch Texture in Consumer Experience

When it comes to consumer experience, the sense of touch and the texture of products play a significant role in shaping perceptions and influencing purchasing decisions. The tactile experience adds a sensory dimension to the overall interaction, allowing consumers to connect with products on a deeper level. Let's explore the sensory importance of touch texture in the consumer journey and how it impacts various product categories:

Texture analysis in action: Comparing plant-based and normal whipped creams

Comparing Textures: Plant-Based vs.
Dairy Whipped Cream 



Whipped cream is a beloved topping that adds a delightful creaminess to desserts, beverages, and more. Traditionally, dairy whipped cream has been the go-to choice, but as the plant-based movement gains momentum, plant-based whipped cream has emerged as a worthy contender. In our own lab we have been exploring the differences in texture between plant-based and dairy whipped cream and considering consumer textural expectations and preferences. 



Ensuring food sustainability: The essentiality of measuring texture

In recent years, the global discourse on food sustainability has gained significant momentum. From reducing food waste to promoting environmentally friendly farming practices, numerous aspects contribute to creating a sustainable food system. However, one crucial factor often overlooked is the measurement of texture in food. While texture may seem like a trivial concern, it plays a vital role in ensuring food quality, minimising waste, and optimising sustainability. 

Texture analysis in action: Comparing fat characteristics

Many times, over the years we have been asked about the measurement of plasticity.  Usually this is with reference to fats and, when asked to describe this property, customers talk about the ability of the fat to be shaped and moulded, often in regard to its use in pastry making. Pastry making often involves shaping and moulding the dough. Flexible fats, like butter, have a plasticity that allows them to be easily shaped without breaking or tearing the dough. This plasticity enables the dough to be rolled out smoothly and gives it the ability to hold its shape during baking.

The anatomy of an adhesive tape graph

There are several reasons why there are so many different types of adhesive tapes available. Each type of tape is designed to meet specific requirements and applications. Here are some reasons for the variety:

1. Surface compatibility: Different surfaces require different adhesive properties. For example, some surfaces may be rough or uneven, while others may be smooth or sensitive. Adhesive tapes are formulated with specific adhesives and backings to ensure proper bonding and compatibility with various surfaces, such as paper, plastic, metal, fabric, glass or skin.

The sensory experience of packaging: Optimising functional efficiency and mechanical properties

Packaging serves as more than just a protective shell for products; it is an integral part of the consumer experience. While visual aesthetics and tactile sensations often take the spotlight, the functional efficiency and mechanical properties of packaging play a crucial role in enhancing usability and convenience. These elements contribute to the sensory experience of packaging, shaping our perception and interaction with products.

Texture analysis and clean label foods

Nearly two out of three consumers say that ingredients have at least a moderate influence on their food and beverage purchases, (according to research from the International Food Information Council (IFIC)) and they try to choose foods made from clean ingredients, which many define as “not artificial or synthetic” , followed by “organic,” "fresh," “something they know is nutritious” and "natural. "Almost half consider themselves as clean eaters, with “eating foods that aren’t highly processed” being the top definition and 21% of shoppers are aiming to avoid what they perceive as potentially harmful effects of chemical-sounding ingredients while 18% are concerned about the potential side effects of unfamiliar ingredients, according to the IFIC survey. 

The use of texture analysis in developing new materials for wearable technologies

Wearable technologies have gained tremendous popularity in recent years, with the rise of fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health monitoring and entertainment devices. As the demand for wearable devices increases, so does the need for new materials that are lightweight, durable, and comfortable to wear for extended periods whilst collecting and transmitting data accurately. Achieving this balance between form and function requires careful consideration of the materials used in their construction.

Lipsticks: Formulation, Production & Characterisation – A Review

The history, formulations, and production process of lipsticks are the subjects of a review article titled "Lipsticks History, Formulations, and Production: A Narrative Review." The article, which was published in the Journal of Cosmetics, is written by a team of researchers from universities in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia.

The article starts by exploring the history of lipsticks and how they have evolved over the years. It then goes on to describe the various formulations used in modern lipsticks, including the ingredients used to achieve different textures and colours. The authors also discuss the manufacturing process of lipsticks, which involves several stages, including melting, mixing, and pouring.

Texture analysis in action: Discover how modifying materials changes mechanical properties

Paper drinking straws are useful because they are a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic straws. Plastic straws are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down in the environment, potentially harming wildlife and polluting oceans. In contrast, paper straws are biodegradable and can be easily disposed of in a more sustainable manner. Additionally, paper straws are a renewable resource, as they can be made from sustainably sourced materials such as bamboo.

However, paper straws are not as durable as plastic straws and can become soggy and disintegrate in a short amount of time, especially if left in a drink for too long. They are also more limited in their use – they are not suitable for all types of drinks, especially thicker liquids, like smoothies or milkshakes, which can cause the straw to soften and disintegrate quickly. 

How to use a texture analyser to beat your competitors

You might be considering the purchase of a Texture Analyser and wondering how it will give you an advantage in your product development or you might already be an experienced user looking to employ your Texture Analyser to develop new products and want to benchmark the texture of products that are already established to see why they are texturally successful or where gaps in the market are waiting for improvements in texture. 

Texture analysis in action: Finding new ways to measure stickiness

Stickiness is a major consideration for manufacturers of certain products. Whilst stickiness can be a desired property for certain products it can also be an unattractive sensorial property that can be very off-putting for consumers. However, it is a simple property to measure and that is where a Texture Analyser comes in.

Recently in the lab we have been expanding the application of a rig that was originally designed for the measurement of nail polish adhesion. During the test, a channel 20cm long is filled with the sample to a depth of 0.5 mm and 5-10 adhesion tests are performed at points along this channel. The probe is held on the surface of the sample at 750g for 5 seconds to allow a bond to form between the probe and sample before withdrawing quickly and measuring the stickiness (the force to separate the two surfaces) and stringiness (the distance/time pulled away before separation occurs). The ability to prepare a sample and test it in several different regions along its length increases sample throughput – a particularly important factor in sample testing efficiency.

3D Printed Materials for the Pharmaceutical Industry: Update on Texture Analyser research

The advancement of 3D printing technology has created new opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, enabling for the design of customised and complicated drug delivery systems, as well as the fabrication of implants and tissues. Yet, depending on printing process parameters such as nozzle size, layer height, and material composition, the mechanical properties of 3D printed medications might vary dramatically. It is critical to employ a Texture Analyser during the development phase to ensure consistent and predictable properties of 3D printed pharmaceuticals. Scientists can optimise the printing process to attain the necessary qualities by analysing the mechanical properties of 3D printed medical materials. This can help to ensure that the products have the necessary strength, disintegration, and dissolution behaviour for effective drug delivery or are structurally fit for purpose.

Like with any manufacturing innovation, the finished 3D printed product must undergo quality control to assess its physical properties. A Texture Analyser is an important part of this procedure because it provides a reliable way to test the mechanical properties of 3D printed objects by using a variety of compression, tension, extrusion, adhesion, bending, or cutting tests to measure a product's physical properties such as hardness, elasticity, tensile strength, flexural modulus, fracturability, and compressibility, to name a few.

Examples of how 3D printing materials can be tested

Extrusion: The printability of materials used in extrusion-based 3D printing is one of the most important properties especially when fabricating objects with architectural complexities. This parameter is influenced by several factors (temperature, components, and additives) which makes thorough evaluation and classification challenging. Extrusion tests are usually performed to predict ink printability which is governed by consistency.

Forward Extrusion Rig; Compression test using a
Cylinder Probe; Three Point Bend Rig

Compression: A Texture Analyser can be used to perform compression testing on samples to characterise their mechanical properties which are important for their structural integrity.

Flexure and Bending: Potential materials can be assessed to see whether then have suitable flexibility and biocompatibility

Puncture, Elongation and Tension: Orodispersible films (ODFs) are promising dosage forms for children or elderly people who may face swallowing problems with solid oral dosage forms. By printing active pharmaceutical ingredients onto orodispersible films, the flexibility of drug dosing is increased and provides potential for personalised medicines.

Tensile Grips and Film Support Rig

Burst strength, tensile strength and film flexibility on a Texture Analyser

Extrusion 3D printing can be utilised to produce transparent, smooth and thin, yet flexible and strong orodispersible films containing therapeutic doses. Using a Texture Analyser the films can have their burst strength and flexibility properties measured as part of their all-important physical characteristics that could impact on their usability.

Latest research pioneers in 3D printed pharmaceuticals

The following are examples of work carried out in this field in 2023 at such institutes as University of Huddersfield, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Liverpool John Moores University, Virginia Commonwealth University, using the Texture Analyser.

Simultaneous fabrication of multiple tablets within seconds using tomographic volumetric 3D printing

Improving drug release rate, drug-polymer miscibility, printability and processability of FDM 3D-printed tablets by weak acid-base interaction

The Use of Micro-Ribbons and Micro-Fibres in the Formulation of 3D Printed Fast Dissolving Oral Films

Design and optimization of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride biodegradable 3D printed ocular inserts: Full factorial design and in-vitro and ex-vivo evaluations: Part II

3D Printable One‐Part Carbon Nanotube‐Elastomer Ink for Health Monitoring Applications

Biphasic burst and sustained transdermal delivery in vivo using an AI-optimized 3D-printed MN patch

In-situ ionic crosslinking of 3D bioprinted cell-hydrogel constructs for mechanical reinforcement and improved cell growth

Development of 3D printable bioresorbable drug eluting coronary stents: An experimental and computational investigation

A critical review of traditional and advanced characterisation tools to drive formulators towards the rational development of 3D printed oral dosage forms

View a wide range of tests that can be performed on all types of pharmaceutical/medical products

'Texture Analysis: Its Importance for 3D Printed Medical Materials’ is an article that examines new findings in this emerging field of medical research and development and looks at how texture analysis can be applied to its specific challenges. This article is available as a PDF free of charge on request. Request this article

There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.

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

The TA.XTplusC 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!

Get in touch to discuss your specific test requirements

The impact of hydrocolloids on the sensory experience of food

Hydrocolloids are substances that are capable of forming a gel or thickening a liquid when they come into contact with water. They are commonly used in food production to modify the texture, stability, and mouthfeel of a variety of food products and can impact the sensory experience of food in several ways:

1. Texture modification: Hydrocolloids can be used to modify the texture of food products, such as increasing the thickness, viscosity, or elasticity of a liquid or creating a gel-like texture. This can impact the mouthfeel and perception of the food in the mouth, making it feel more creamy, smooth, or thick. 

2. Stability improvement: Hydrocolloids can also improve the stability of food products by preventing separation or settling of particles, maintaining the uniformity and consistency of the product. This can impact the sensory experience by ensuring a consistent texture and appearance of the food over time. 

3. Flavour release: Hydrocolloids can impact the release of flavours in the mouth by controlling the rate of release and enhancing the perception of flavours. This can impact the sensory experience by increasing the intensity and duration of the flavour, making it more pronounced and enjoyable. 

4. Moisture retention: Hydrocolloids can also impact the moisture content of food products, which can impact the sensory experience by making the food more moist and juicy, or alternatively, more dry and crunchy.

Time to integrate insects into your food products?

We need to find a way to feed ourselves as a global civilisation because current infrastructures are not designed to sustain supplies at the level required by 2050, while expanding the size of current systems will have a terrible impact on our ecosystem.

Insects are one of the most sustainable animal protein sources that are acceptable for human consumption, and they are just one of many options that scientists are looking at in order to feed future populations. A number of culinary labs and chefs have been experimenting with ways to employ insects, and food products containing insects are legal in many parts of the world. Lately, the food chain Lidl has debuted their "insect burger". This product will have been subjected to comprehensive quality testing and methods to ensure that it is not only safe to consume but also fulfils quality standards and customer expectations.

Texture analysis in action: Doughnuts and their coatings

The addition of a doughnut icing coating is important for several reasons:

1. Aesthetics: Doughnuts are often decorated with icing or other toppings to enhance their visual appeal. A well-performing icing coating should have a smooth and even texture, with no cracks or bubbles. This will make the doughnuts more visually appealing to customers and increase their perceived value.

2. Shelf life: A well-performing icing coating can also help extend the shelf life of the doughnut by creating a barrier that prevents moisture loss and extends freshness. This is particularly important for doughnuts that are made in large quantities and need to be stored for several days before being sold.

New solutions for dysphagia food: Imitating IDDSI manual methods

To ensure that dysphagia patients receive the proper consistency of food/drink, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) developed a standardised international terminology and description for texture-modified foods and thickened fluids. While the IDDSI framework provides a standardised texture description (Level 0 to Level 7) and is now widely acknowledged as an international standard, IDDSI texture level testing and assessment are qualitative and subjective. These approaches were designed primarily for use by care workers. However, they are not optimised for use by food manufacturers for product quality control.

Meet the technology to find the best haircare for curls and kinks

The world of hair care can be a tangled web, especially for those with curly or kinky locks. Despite an increasing number of hair care brands targeting various hair textures, the vast majority of hair studies have focused on straight or wavy hair, particularly those of Asian or white origin. This has left many consumers feeling lost amidst conflicting advice and inconsistent results.

To help bring some clarity to this confusion, a team of scientists from Spelman University and the University of Massachusetts Amherst have set out to identify key hair properties that can help consumers select products and achieve more consistent results. Using their Texture Analyser, the team analysed the mechanical properties of wavy, curly, and kinky hair strands by uncurling and stretching them until they broke and measured the stresses, strains and forces to do this.

How to substantiate your snack crunch claims

The “crunch” factor featured strongly in the latest Frito-Lay US Trend Index as an important component in the perfect snack. Consumers were polled on their snacking preference, showing that 70% of snackers would reach for food with a crunch. It’s not surprising then that there’s an entire industry dedicated to making foods crispy.

Whether it’s a heaping pile of pita chips, a crisp apple, or a fresh cucumber salad, people can’t seem to get enough of that crispy, crunchy texture. It turns out, texture and sound play an underrated role —gastrophysicist Charles Spence and a psychiatrist explain the unique kick many of us get out of crunchy food in particular and that there’s a direct correlation between crunchiness and how a food is perceived. Read more

Texture analysis in action: plant-based fish texture

This month in the lab we have been comparing the firmness and toughness of plant based vs standard tuna and plant based vs standard fish fingers. Whilst cultured or plant based fish products are yet to hit centre stage in most countries of the world, what is known is that for a consumer branching out to try a new, unfamiliar protein source when it becomes available, it is vital that its texture is favourable especially when it must have the ‘same-as’ sensory experience.

Texture analysis is the key comparative tool in this instance as it will provide a benchmark for the traditional fish or fish product that the manufacturer must aim for in order to maintain textural expectations of alternative food formats.

Development of a standardised method for measuring bioadhesion and mucoadhesion

The TA.XTplusC Texture Analyser has emerged as a useful tool for measuring bioadhesion bond strength. The determination of the adhesive properties of pharmaceutical dosage forms is important in their development and several methods have been developed for these measurements. Tests of solid dosage forms, semi-solids such as ointments and gels and even systems which solidify on contact with the target organ can be performed using alternative measuring probes. The measurement of adhesive properties has already been reviewed for transdermal adhesive products and the same adhesive test guidelines and curve analysis techniques apply for the measurement of mucoadhesion.

How does texture affect the way we eat?

Crispy, slimy, gooey, velvety – there is a whole lexicon of words to describe the different textures of food products, reflecting our innate hunger for contrast and variety. The market for textured food products is thought to be worth millions of dollars, and getting a food’s texture wrong can result in lifelong disgust and rejection. But when it comes to enjoying what we eat, the texture is often considered only secondary to taste and smell - but is this really fair? Read more in this article.

The past few years have transformed consumer habits when it comes to food. How we evaluate our purchases, the times of day we eat and our perceptions of meal occasions have been altered by shifting political landscapes, a global pandemic, and a cost-of-living crisis.

A guide to hair product testing techniques

The health of human hair plays a crucial role in both male and female appearance, and has a strong psychological and social importance. Beautiful, strong and healthy hair is broadly desired. However, hair is highly exposed to harsh factors such as heat, chemical treatments, pollution and watering that can cause damage on the hair physicochemical properties. There is great interest not only in developing products for the protection and recovery of damaged hair, but also in developing effective protocols to investigate the efficacy of innovative hair care products. Claims for cosmetic products, as well as hair care products, are a strategy to obtain successful marketing and promotion. These claims need to be substantiated by efficacy tests, whether they be in vivo, ex vivo, or in vitro studies.

How Texture Analysers are helping automation in the fruit and soft tissue industries

Robots can do a lot. They build cars in factories and sort goods in warehouses. However, there are some things that seemingly appear quite basic in comparison that robots still cannot do perfectly like picking an apple from a tree. Whilst it is a simple thing for a human who can feel around, touch, pull and twist robots, unlike humans, have no sense of touch to tell them if they are squeezing too hard. Creating a robotic implement that can simply pick an apple and drop it into a bin or move a soft tissue in micro surgery without damaging it is a multimillion-dollar effort that has been decades in the making. Teams around the world are trying various approaches; whether it is to replace the labour intensity of parts of the harvesting process, increase the speed of certain fruit preparation steps or master the precise touch and hold specifications for the handling of soft tissue.

Why sound is so valuable to your product success

The Acoustic Envelope Detector on the
TA.XTplusC Texture Analyser

Ever wondered why we are so drawn to the pop of a champagne cork or the fizz released when opening a carbonated beverage can? Auditory inputs contribute to product enjoyment and currently are the underestimated dimension to be measured and controlled for product success.

Whilst a number of the world’s largest food producers are now starting to commercialise the crunch of their product there are a wide range of other products where sound is a key feature to their likeability. What we hear when we experience the product plays an important role in our multisensory perception and enjoyment of the overall multisensory experience of using it.

Applying powder flow analysis to upcycled food in sports and infant nutrition

"Thirst quencher," "rapid bulk gain," "performance recovery formula," "weight reduction," or "muscle repair" are all powdered drink alternatives in the realm of sports nutrition. Formulations designed to be scooped out of a big container have varied compositions that affect powder behaviour during travel and storage. Fat content, particle size, and humidity can affect powder behaviour during processing and also the physical characteristics during use. The same is true for infant formulae.

How to measure the snap, crackle and pop of your confectionery products

Taste, smell and texture have long been associated with eating enjoyment, but there is another characteristic that is yet to be fully explored: sound. From the satisfying crunch of a potato chip to the energetic snap of a chocolate bar, the sound heard when a food is handled and consumed provides vital information on its quality, both actual and assumed. Growing recognition of the intrinsic role of sound in eating enjoyment is now starting to emerge as an important trend with untapped potential and is driving a new generation of food acoustics analysis procedures designed to align product development with end-user expectations, create a positive point of difference and secure consumer loyalty.

10% more snap, 20% crispier, 10% less sticky – all of these quantitative claims need to be substantiated – enter the Acoustic Envelope Detector.

How to turn your Texture Analyser into a Standard Method Penetrometer

Penetration is the method used to measure consistency which is the resistance a sample exhibits to deformation by an applied force.

A Penetrometer is a device that provides a rapid empirical method for measuring the denseness, compaction, consistency or penetrability of a wide variety of solid, semisolid, food and non-food products. These typically include soil, agricultural produce, or semisolid petroleum products in the pharmaceutical (such as creams and ointments), civil engineering, agriculture, geology and scientific exploration industries.

How improving texture in food can impact depression, poor nutrition and eating after cancer and COVID-19

In previous articles focused on texture we have discovered that texture has an influence on satiety and hence obesity by enhancing the feeling of being full. Findings revealed that both solid and higher viscous food significantly reduce hunger and promote satiety when compared to liquid and low viscous food. This study highlights that a focus on food texture and the development of satiety-enhancing food can be a promising strategy to reduce food intake and encourage weight management.

Cultured meat and seafood – why texture analysis is crucial for success

Cultivated meat (also known as cultured meat) is genuine animal meat (including seafood and organ meats) produced in vitro using tissue engineering techniques. This method of manufacturing eliminates the need to raise and farm animals for food. Cellular agriculture has the potential to address animal welfare, food insecurity, human health, and the significant global environmental problems caused by meat production, and is expected to account for 35% of global meat consumption by 2040. We are witnessing the reinvention of fermentation, which is pushing biological boundaries by creating new foods and medicines that are more precise, healthy, and sustainable.

Smart materials and the need for mechanical assessment

“Smart” materials respond to external stimuli by alteration of one or more of their physical properties. These and other innovative materials are being progressed providing such characteristics as shape recovery, compression strength, adhesiveness, hardness or rigidity – the mechanical properties depending upon the purpose of the material.

Stable Micro Systems manufactures Texture Analysers/Materials Testers to test the mechanical properties of all types of products or materials by applying a choice of compression, tension, extrusion, adhesion, bending or cutting tests to measure a product’s mechanical properties.

How to measure texture and density of your gluten-free bakery products

One of the biggest challenges in developing gluten-free products is creating an appealing texture that is not firmer or more dense than its gluten-loaded counterpart. Navigating this complex area requires a detailed understanding of the structural properties and composition of food formulations.

Gluten-free products have traditionally had unappealing textures such as dry, crumbly and gritty qualities all of which are perceived as unattractive textures. Other common issues in gluten-free bakery products include reduced volume, lack of an even cell structure, and reduced shelf life. This intimidating challenge to the cereal technologist and baker alike has led to the search for alternatives to gluten in the manufacture of gluten-free products that are able to mimic its unique properties mainly involving the incorporation of starches, different sources of protein and hydrocolloids.

Giving hair a new texture

Do you want to see how Ashland, USA scientists have been using the Volscan Profiler to measure hair volume and compare mousse samples with different formulations? Their work is summarised in Personal Care Magazine.

Read the article

Why measure hair volume?

Hair products are often marketed to provide good ‘body’ to the hair while taming flyaways and frizz. The efficiency of these products has to be scientifically proven. High body follows the loose definition of thick and bouncy hair with high volume and much movement when the head is turned. It may also be defined as hair with good elevation from the scalp in both the vertical and lateral directions.

Texture analysis of packaging from upcycled sources

Sustainable packaging is a key focus for businesses across all industries, driven by government regulations and customer demand. Sustainable packaging can be created by designing package items with multiple lifetimes, recycling, reusing, or upcycling specific packaging components, or choosing more environmentally friendly materials to begin with. Making packaging more sustainable entails involving all stages of the supply chain in order to bridge the gap between manufacturers and recyclers and assist businesses in better understanding packaging circularity and future-proof design.