Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to set up and coordinate sensory analysis and assess the results obtained from a routine sensory analysis.
This unit applies to laboratory technicians and technical officers working in the food industry. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technician will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will clearly describe the scope of permitted practice in modifying testing procedures and for communicating results to people outside of the laboratory.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. | ||
1 | Select panellists/individuals for sensory analysis | 1.1 | Perform initial screening of potential panellists/individuals based on the testing brief |
1.2 | Use information to select suitable people | ||
1.3 | Analyse and report the results used to establish a panel | ||
2 | Prepare panellists for sensory analysis | 2.1 | Prepare panellists for sensory analysis |
2.2 | Conduct any training required to detect test characteristics | ||
2.3 | Instruct panellists on recording and reporting requirements of test data | ||
3 | Prepare samples for sensory analysis | 3.1 | Prepare reference samples to be used for the sensory analysis specification |
3.2 | Prepare evaluation samples to sensory analysis specification | ||
3.3 | Apply food safety procedures in the preparation and presentation of samples | ||
3.4 | Identify and report on any defects or abnormalities in samples | ||
4 | Conduct routine sensory analysis | 4.1 | Select appropriate test materials for the information required |
4.2 | Ensure tests are conducted according to workplace procedures | ||
4.3 | Analyse data | ||
4.4 | Report on process and results in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
5 | Evaluate and report findings | 5.1 | Assess the possible effects of group attributes |
5.2 | Review reliability of results for group bias | ||
5.3 | Complete all relevant documentation and present findings | ||
6 | Maintain a safe work environment | 6.1 | Use established work practices to ensure personal safety and that of other personnel |
6.2 | Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts | ||
6.3 | Safely collect laboratory waste for subsequent disposal | ||
6.4 | Care for and store equipment and reagents as required | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Writing skills to develop questionnaires
Oral communication skills to interact effectively with panellists including those who have diverse cultural and social backgrounds.
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Testing