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Sensory excellence starts with consistency. That’s why building and benchmarking taster proficiency is non-negotiable. Consumer expectations are higher than ever, and in today’s fast paced environment it’s easy to disregard the importance of calibration, despite the fundamental role it plays is delivering high-quality products. FlavorActiV’s Open Proficiency Schemes are designed to support tasters globally- helping sensory teams validate, calibrate and elevate their performance. With the launch of our newest Open Proficiency Schemes, even more professionals can benefit.

More about Taster Proficiency
Taster proficiency isn’t just about identifying off-flavours- it’s about giving panels the confidence to accurately analyse products in the food and beverage industry. Without regular sensory calibration, even experienced tasters can drift, leading to undetected quality issues, and potential inconsistencies in products. Teams that don’t participate in proficiency schemes may also fall short during audits or fail to meet internal or regulatory sensory validation requirements. In contrast, trained and verified tasters bring measurable value to quality assurance, helping to catch problems early, ensure batch-to-batch consistency, and protect brand reputation in competitive markets.

Why Taster Proficiency Matters and What’s at Risk Without it
Risks of Not Participating
• Panel Drift where tasters gradually lose alignment with Flavour Standards
• Inconsistent panel performance
• Customer complaints leading to loss of consumer confidence
• Reduced credibility in QA reporting and decision making

Benefits of Ongoing Proficiency
• Improved taster accuracy and confidence
• Early fault detection, preventing costly errors
• Encourages staff retention
• Reduces specialised sensory training costs for panelists
• Competitive edge in industries where taste and aroma are brand-critical

Participation in structured schemes like FlavorActiVs Open Proficiency Programs ensures your team aren’t just guessing. They are calibrated, verified and ready to perform at the highest standards.

Our New Schemes
Our New Schemes have been designed with the Food & Beverage industry in mind. Supporting the industry to calibrate their sensory abilities and collaborate on all round improvement. Our Schemes are available in single rounds as well as full annual certified programmes.

Annual Neutral Spirit Subscription
• 4 Rounds per Year
• Full TVS Access
• Full Certification
• IN-OUT Proficiency Testing
• Calibrating in 9 Flavours

Annual CO2 Subscription
• 2 Rounds Per Year
• Full TVS Access
• Full Certification
• IN-OUT Proficiency Testing
• Calibrating in 10 Flavours

Proficiency is the next step after you’re trained to recognise the flavours included in each scheme. Regular calibration uses FlavorActiVs proficiency software and GMP Flavour Standards to benchmark, troubleshoot, and develop individual tasting abilities.

Conclusion
Whether you operate locally or globally, setting standards, aligning your panel to build trust, enhancing product quality, and ensuring confidence in every sensory decision is the key to success.
If you’re ready to begin your sensory journey reach out to connect with on our Sensory Specialists or find more information here!