The center is a state-of-the-art human research testing facility that provides students at all levels with experiential learning opportunities in sensory and consumer science, teaches sensory methodology through short courses and our graduate certificate, and supports industry through technical assistance and sensory testing services.

Sensory analysis uses human senses to consistently measure such food characteristics as taste, texture, smell, and appearance in a controlled environment. The information collected assists the food industry in addressing consumer demands and introducing new and improved products.

The Sensory Evaluation Center allows sensory scientists, flavor scientists, food chemists, process and package engineers, and nutritionists to better understand how specific ingredients, processes, packages, or storage conditions affect the sensory properties of foods.

Academic Mission
Testing Services

We have experience conducting evaluations on a broad range of products. We maintain a database of consumers with the capability of screening for your test objectives.

Sensory Evaluation Center Members
Sign up for taste tests!

Follow these instructions to become a panelist for taste tests in the Sensory Evaluation Center.

Facilities

The Sensory Evaluation Center is located in the Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building on the Penn State University Park campus.

Department of Food Science

Address

202 Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building
University Park, PA 16802
Directions