Abstract:

 

In a previous technical report we discussed a commonly used measure of sensory difference, the proportion of discriminators (Pd), and explained that this measure is method specific. We concluded that:

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“The concept of the proportion of discriminators is intuitive and appealing. Unfortunately, it is also method-specific and one can achieve very different values using different methods, which reduces its appeal as a management criterion. The use of a method–independent index, such as the Thurstonian d′, can provide more stable and accurate information that may be valuable in a decision that involves the consideration of consumers’ ability to discriminate between alternate product formulations.”

 

Many companies have implemented sensory discrimination programs using Pd as a parameter for power calculations. Since this measure has shortcomings, there is a need to consider a unit that is method-independent such as the Thurstonian d. Fortunately, tools exist that permit the translation of a method-specific Pd into the corresponding d value. In this report we discuss how these tools can be used in practice.

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