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. 

How is a Texture Analyser used in the development of clean label foods?

Clean label foods are typically made with fewer and more familiar ingredients, and do not contain artificial or synthetic additives, flavours, or colours. Texture Analysers can be used in the development of clean label foods to help ensure that the texture and mouthfeel of the product meets consumer expectations while adhering to clean label guidelines. 

Here are a few examples of how texture analysis can be used:

Ingredient selection: Texture analysis can be used to test the texture and functionality of different natural and minimally processed ingredients, such as starches, gums, and fibres, to determine which ones can best replace synthetic additives in a product. When looking at the texture analysis data, you would be looking to obtain the same (or as close to) textural profile of both products to show that your new clean formulation matches the original so as avoid customer disappointment when opting to adopt the new product. Whilst customers wish to make lifestyle choices they are fickle when it comes to compromising on product expectations which can subsequently affect brand loyalty.

Perfect reformulation provides the ‘same-as’ texture profile

Quality control: Texture analysis can be used to test the texture and consistency of finished products to ensure that they meet consistent standards and have the desired texture and mouthfeel. You can use a Texture Analyser to quantify your ‘gold standard’ to aim for each time to ensure that your products have consistent texture from batch to batch. Set up a pass/fail criteria to maintain your perfect product or provide reason for batch rejection. This can help to build consumer trust and loyalty and differentiate your products from those of your competitors that may have more variation in texture.

When the formulation or processing conditions are not yet
optimised compared to the original

Quality control: Texture analysis can be used to test the texture and consistency of finished products to ensure that they meet consistent standards and have the desired texture and mouthfeel. You can use a Texture Analyser to quantify your ‘gold standard’ to aim for each time to ensure that your products have consistent texture from batch to batch. Set up a pass/fail criteria to maintain your perfect product or provide reason for batch rejection. This can help to build consumer trust and loyalty and differentiate your products from those of your competitors that may have more variation in texture.

Example results showing 3 graphs falling within the
product acceptance band and one falling out

Sensory evaluation: Texture analysis can be used in conjunction with sensory evaluation to quantify and describe the texture of clean label products, and to develop sensory profiles that can guide formulation and recipe optimisation.

Overall, Texture Analysers can be a valuable tool in the development of clean label foods, as they can help manufacturers optimise formulations, ensure quality, and meet consumer expectations for texture and mouthfeel, while adhering to clean label guidelines.

A Texture Analyser is accurate and objective providing quantification of an enormous range of textural properties – see examples of these. By leveraging the power of texture analysis, manufacturers can differentiate their products and gain a loyal consumer following.

Still need to be convinced? Read other case studies about how industry leaders have used their Texture Analyser to get ahead.

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