On the surface, it seems easy to run an NPD food sample session. All you need is the food, served at the right temperature…at a good time of day….and a stockpile of the right utensils…and the right people in the room…giving feedback in the right way… Actually, it’s not so easy. So on this episode of the Oh For Food’s Sake Podcast, we’re giving you a list of handy tips to make your sample session a success.
We share with you what you need to think about before, during and after your sample session to really nail it. We cover all elements of the sample session and share our best practices that we learnt through years of trial and error. The episode also includes our anti wooden spoon manifesto, which is a timely reminder that the tiny details really count!
If you’d like to get in touch with us to share your sample session stories, head over to our LinkedIn page or Facebook group and please also let us know if you’d like us to do a future episode about sensory testing and tasting methods. And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so that you don’t miss an episode!
Timestamps
[0:48] Today’s topic: How to nail your NPD sampling session
[3:15] There are so many ways that a sampling session can run away from you!
[4:35] Keeping personal opinions outside of the sampling session
[6:50] Tackling a lack of resources
[8:57] What information are you presenting to the panel?
[10:15] A really simple tip to set yourself up for success
[11:27] “How much do I hate wooden spoons?!!” A reminder to watch out for the utensils you use in the development process
[16:45] Not everyone has the language to describe the flavours they can taste
[17:58] Think about the environment around your sample tasting
[21:12] What to record in your sample session notes
[22:48] Combatting flavour overlap and sampling fatigue
[24:40] Who’s in your panel?
[28:21] Documenting outcomes
[29:57] The kitchen vs. factory sample breakdown
[31:13] Don’t bias your panel!
[32:25] Our handy sample session summary
Links and Resources
Find out more about this month’s sponsor, The Seed Group, here:
You can follow us here on instagram
If you would like further support with myself, Amy for food industry coaching and facilitation find me here on instagram or LinkedIn
For food industry Consulting from Lucy you can find her here on instagram or LinkedIn
See you next time!