Laboratory Techniques & Safety Flashcards

What is the recommended relative humidity range for sensory booth areas?

Answer: 40-60%

Moderate humidity around 40-60% keeps panelists comfortable and samples stable.

Why should odor-free materials be used for booth construction and countertops?

Answer: They avoid background odors that interfere with aroma evaluation

Odorous building materials can mask or alter sample aromas.

What is a key reason for providing rest intervals between samples?

Answer: To reduce sensory adaptation and carryover effects

Rest breaks allow receptors to recover, lowering adaptation and carryover between samples.

For human subjects sensory research at a US university, which body typically reviews the protocol for panelist safety?

Answer: Institutional Review Board (IRB)

IRBs review research involving human subjects to ensure ethical conduct and participant safety.

Which practice best ensures that sample identity codes are not decoded by panelists?

Answer: Assigning new random codes each session and keeping the key with the panel leader

Fresh random codes per session with a secured key prevent panelists from learning product identities.

What is the main purpose of using calibrated thermometers in sensory sample preparation?

Answer: To ensure food safety and consistent serving temperatures

Calibrated thermometers verify safe cooking temperatures and standardized serving conditions.

Why should noise and distractions be minimized in sensory booths?

Answer: Distractions reduce concentration and increase variability in responses

A quiet, distraction-free environment helps panelists focus and give more reliable judgments.