In addition to trained sensory panel testing,
consumer testing can be conducted near the end
of predicted shelf life to
assure that Overall Liking
remains at an acceptable le
vel. The end of shelf life
can be chosen based on a meaningful drop in consum
er liking. This protects
the brand by assuring
that the product will not be perceived as lower qua
lity when consumed close to the ‘best by’ date.
Because consumer testing is more
expensive than trained panel test
ing, consumer testing is often
conducted after sensory panelists have documented a meaningful change in the products.