Sensory Profiling and Consumer Research combine to achieve Product Optimisation

Challenge

To re-invigorate the flavour and texture of a well-known fruit chew whilst retaining its core sensory signature and differentiation from the competition.

Solution

We defined the Sensory Fingerprint of the chew, test prototypes and competitors. After Consumer Product Testing, we used OptiMap+™ to define the Drivers of Liking for heavy and light users of the brand.

The resulting predictive model showed the NPD technologist how to manipulate the flavour and texture attributes of the chew to increase its appeal.

Outcome

OptiMap+™ revealed the sensory changes needed to maximise appeal of the chew whilst both retaining its core market and attracting new users.

The predictive model meant that the consumer reaction to further development prototypes could be predicted from the Sensory Fingerprinting reducing time and the cost to launch.