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.

The result is that consumers in 2023 will put more emphasis on the full sensory experience; from discovery, to purchase and prep and, of course, eating it! The challenge for brands and suppliers is to cater to this changing sensibility. And it is believed that an understanding of the sensory experience at every touchpoint, will be vital. Read more in this article to discover the key takeaways, including how suppliers can meet the growing desires of ‘sensory-seekers’.

If you’re looking for more insights into the importance of food texture and how consumers are affected you might wish to review our recommended reading list. We’ll lead you to articles such as:

• Food texture: how important is it?

• The Importance of Texture in Food

• The Influence of Flavour on Texture

• Crunchy, creamy colours: how colour influences food textures

• Texture, Taste and Aroma: Multi-scale Materials

We can design and manufacture probes or fixtures for the TA.XTplusC texture analyser that are bespoke to your sample and its specific measurement.

Once your measurement is performed, our expertise in its graphical interpretation is unparalleled. Not only can we develop the most suitable and accurate method for the testing of your sample, but we can also prepare analysis procedures that obtain the desired parameters from your curve and drop them into a spreadsheet or report designed around your requirements.

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

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