Popcorn test can boost texture, accelerate NPD

A NEW testing device has been developed to help manufacturers produce popcorn with the ideal texture, as well as allow them to create new and interesting popcorn varieties faster.

According to Stable Micro Systems, using its new Triple Ring Cutting System reduces testing times and manpower requirements as compared to sensory testing. The device requires only small sample sizes for accurate and objective analysis.  It is used in conjunction with the company’s TA.XTplus, the texture analyzer of choice for food manufacturers all over the world.

Quick results

The test head comprises an arrangement of concentric rings, which provides a large cutting surface area in a relatively small device. This allows a monolayer of sample to be tested to an appropriate depth in a vessel only 95mm in diameter. During the test, the rings cut into the popcorn to a chosen distance above the vessel base, forcing the sample to break down. Designed to recognize the heterogeneity of popcorn, the texture analyzer measures and gathers force data, automatically calculating work of shear, brittleness, crispiness and crunchiness.

Simple to use

The Triple Ring Cutting System is simple to operate. A centralizing platform ensures the test vessel can be quickly located in the optimum position, and the magnetic coupling of the test head enables quick removal and replacement for cleaning. This “quick release” system is the first of its kind in texture analysis and supports the need for simple, efficient test procedures in food manufacturing.

Popcorn a booming snack in APAC

“Although commercially available for more than a century, popcorn has enjoyed staggering growth over recent years,” said Jo Smewing, applications manager at Stable Micro Systems. “Researchers predict Asia-Pacific will be the fastest-growing popcorn market over coming years, with a CAGR exceeding 11% to 2020[[i]]. Other than rising disposable incomes, key drivers of its future expansion are tight market segmentation and flavor creativity. But the more disparate the varieties, the more challenging it becomes to hone texture, especially in sweet, toasted and coated popcorn, where consumers expect a completely different texture and mouthfeel from traditional, crisp products. The Triple Ring Cutting System is specifically designed to help our customers develop the winning popcorn varieties of tomorrow and ensure they offer exactly the right textural experience to keep consumers coming back for more.”

The Triple Ring Cutting System, a community registered design, is available immediately and worldwide.