CSA Human Perception & Sensory Physiology 5

Question 1

Adding sugar to coffee reduces perceived bitterness. This phenomenon is called:

Accepted Answer

Mixture suppression

Answer

In mixture suppression, one taste quality reduces the perceived intensity of another.

Question 2

Combining MSG with the ribonucleotide IMP produces a much stronger umami taste than either alone. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Synergy

Answer

Glutamate and 5'-ribonucleotides interact synergistically, strongly enhancing umami.

Question 3

Panelists rate a cherry-flavored drink as more flavorful when it is dyed red rather than left colorless. This illustrates:

Accepted Answer

Cross-modal interaction between vision and flavor

Answer

Visual cues such as color strongly influence flavor identification and perceived intensity.

Question 4

A panelist rates a sample overly high on several attributes because they liked its appearance. This is the:

Accepted Answer

Halo effect

Answer

The halo effect occurs when an overall impression or one attribute biases ratings of other attributes.

Question 5

Tasting a sweet sample immediately after a very sour one, a panelist exaggerates the sweetness. This is a:

Accepted Answer

Contrast effect

Answer

Contrast effects occur when a preceding very different sample exaggerates differences in the next one.

CSA - Certified Sensory Analyst Practice Test