Texture Analysis in Patents: Medical Applications

Stable Micro Systems Texture Analysers are used frequently in patent applications to substantiate claims and provide measured evidence associated with the developed product. Here are a few recent examples within the field of Medicine…

A patent has recently been released by LG Household and Health Care Ltd entitled ‘Preparation for Attaching to Teeth or Surrounding Part of Teeth’.

There are many difficulties involved with delivering an active ingredient into the oral cavity as the contact time and quantity play an important role. As outlined in the patent, there are disadvantages to existing delivery methods. The new preparation delivers an active ingredient whose physical properties are changed before attachment to teeth and after a period of time after the attachment. 

Texture Analysis in Research: Cosmetic Applications

Throughout the world Stable Micro Systems Texture Analysers are being used in universities, institutes and research and development departments as a tool to measure the texture and physical properties of new products and to assist in the progression of research.

Here are several recent examples of the use of Texture Analysis in cosmetic research and product development...

Boosting satiety in low calorie foods

According to a scientist at the Norwegian Institute of Food, Fisheries and Aquaculture (Nofima), reshaping the texture of well-liked foods could help combat obesity and over-eating. 

Quoc Cuong Nguyen's research investigates the link between sensory perception, consumer expectation and satiety and finds that changing the texture of well-liked foods, to prolong the chewing time and ensure prolonged oral exposure, could make people eat less whilst experiencing a similar level of pleasure.

Texture Analysis in Action: New AACC Standard Pasta Blade

A new blade has been developed after extensive work carried out by a set of collaborators to improve the AACC method for cooked pasta quality/firmness measurement. 

Whilst the existing blade (which is in accordance with AACC Standard method 66-50.01) will still be available, this new blade is to be used in accordance with the improved AACC standard method (66-52.01). 

Texture Analysis testing Keto

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high fat diet that has been used historically to control seizures in some epilepsy patients, while causing the body to burn fat (rather than glucose) for energy. It has had a recent revival and become an extremely popular way to lose weight. While a person on the keto diet will not go hungry with the large choice of filling foods still available (meat, fish, eggs, cheese, butter, nuts, berries and cream to name a few), one thing they do lack is the comforting feeling of sitting down to a plate of pasta or a steaming jam sponge pudding and custard.

Popping Candy for Drug Delivery – Acoustic Measurement on a Texture Analyser

Popping candy, often known by various brand names, uses pressurised carbon dioxide gas trapped in a sugar matrix to cause popping noises and crackling sensations when the gas is released in the moisture and temperature of the mouth. 

Popping candy was invented decades ago to be sold as confectionery. More recently, however, food manufacturers and chefs have been incorporating it into chocolate and other types of food to provide an additional point of interest. It is not only food that has benefited from the invention; the pharmaceutical industry is also becoming wise to this interesting ingredient.

Analysing the Physical Properties of a First Aid Kit

Texture Analysers play a large role in the quality control process of the pharmaceutical industry. 

The mechanical properties of all products must be uniform between batches or customer loyalty will decline. This blog post outlines some typical measurements that may be made on the contents of a first aid kit.

Adhesive plasters are often bought as a continuous strip that can be cut to the length needed by the consumer. A measurement on the 180° Peel Test Rig can determine the comparative peeling or stripping characteristics of adhesive bonds, essential for the application of adhesive bandages. Wound dressings and adhesive strips are required to have qualities such as 'low-tack' or moisture-resistance. The plaster’s adhesive properties as are important as the selection of the strip material and surface.

Texture Analysis of Beverages

The word “beverage” does not conjure up images of Texture Analysis, which is best suited to samples with properties ranging from viscous liquids to solids. However, with raw ingredients and packaging to consider, beverage manufacturers have just as much need for Texture Analysers as any other industry.

With a worldwide drive to reduce plastic consumption, paper straws have made an appearance in many bars and restaurants. They are an excellent alternative and a blast from the past for some consumers, coming in a wider range of patterns than we are used to seeing on plastic straws. However, a drawback of paper straws is their lack of structural integrity once they have spent some time soaking in a drink. The softened end not only has an unpleasant mouthfeel; it also reduces the straw’s effectiveness.