CSA Quality Control & Sensory Program Management 2

Question 1

In a sensory QC program, which method rates each production sample's distance from an internal reference using a single scale?

Accepted Answer

Degree of Difference (DOD) rating

Answer

DOD rating scores how far each sample departs from a control on one scale, making it efficient for routine QC.

Question 2

A plant uses 'In/Out' (go/no-go) QC judgments. What is the main prerequisite for this method to work reliably?

Accepted Answer

Panelists need clear training on the boundaries of acceptable product

Answer

In/Out judgments depend on panelists sharing a calibrated concept of the acceptable product range.

Question 3

Which approach best establishes sensory specifications for a QC program?

Accepted Answer

Link trained-panel attribute ranges to consumer acceptance data

Answer

Specifications are most defensible when trained-panel ranges are tied to what consumers find acceptable.

Question 4

When a QC panel's mean score for a control sample drifts upward over several months, what is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Recalibrate the panel against references and review panel performance

Answer

Drift in control scores signals panel calibration issues that call for retraining with references.

Question 5

In a Comprehensive Descriptive QC method, what is typically evaluated?

Accepted Answer

Key attributes rated on intensity against reference standards

Answer

Comprehensive descriptive QC rates intensities of critical attributes relative to references to detect specific deviations.

CSA - Certified Sensory Analyst Practice Test