The extended In/Out test is a practical sensory testing method for batch release, quality control and root cause analysis.
It expands on the classic binary In/Out test by incorporating a scaled assessment of conformity with the target profile and combines this with optional qualitative and quantitative follow-up elements.
The method enables:
The extended In/Out test is particularly suitable for routine quality assurance and forms a methodological bridge between simple release tests and descriptive sensory analysis.
The extended in/out test can be used throughout the entire production chain:
The test can be conducted both modality-specific (smell, taste) and multisensory.
Sensory evaluation is a multi-stage process, with the scaled pass/fail assessment always constituting the first and decisive step.
The individual stages are functionally separate from one another, but logically build upon one another. The approval decision is made on the basis of the scaled assessment, whilst qualitative and quantitative elements serve to inform the diagnosis and the derivation of corrective actions.