The effect of oral and product temperature on the perception of flavor and texture attributes of semi-solids

Appetite. 2003 Dec;41(3):273-81. doi: 10.1016/s0195-6663(03)00105-3.

Abstract

This study examined the effect of oral and product temperature on the perception of texture and flavor attributes. A trained panel assessed 21 texture and flavor attributes in one high-fat and one low-fat product of two semi-solids: custard dessert and mayonnaise. The products were evaluated at 10, 22 or 35 degrees C in combination with oral temperatures of 27, 35 and 43 degrees C. Results showed that modulation of product and oral temperature had significant effects on a number of attributes. Flavor intensities, melting mouth feel, and fat after feel increased, while subjective thickness decreased with increasing product temperature. Neither product- nor oral temperature had an effect on over-all creaminess. Oral temperature affected a number of mouth feel attributes: melting, heterogeneous and smooth. Furthermore, large differences existed in ratings between the high- and low-fat products of custard and mayonnaise, and they were more prominent in mayonnaise. We conclude that the effect of oral temperature on the perception of sensory attributes in semi-solids was small, but present, while the product temperatures influenced the ratings greatly.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Body Temperature / physiology
  • Dietary Fats
  • Female
  • Food Technology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mouth / physiology*
  • Stereognosis / physiology*
  • Taste*
  • Temperature
  • Thermosensing / physiology*
  • Viscosity

Substances

  • Dietary Fats