Research and Methodology

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The Sensus approach for developing and commercializing products is to protect the inherent natural fresh flavor and phytochemicals of the horticultural produce of interest. Therefore, Sensus’ Research & Innovation team is constantly optimizing raw material handling, unit operations and enzymatic treatments in order to provide a high-quality product that captures nature’s perfection.

Integrated Research Approach

Sensus takes an integrated research approach in order to be a technology-driven company and an industry leader. Research is led by Sensus Scientists with expertise in areas including polyphenolics and flavor mapping. In many cases, we have partnered on research intensive projects with top academic institutions (The Ohio State University, University of Florida and Texas A&M University) as well as flavor industry leaders.

Utilization of Cutting-Edge Analytical Techniques

Sensus closely monitors the flavor and phytochemical content of its products using state-of-the-art chromatography and spectrophotometry systems (GC-MS, GC-O, HPLC-PDA, HPLC-MS, UV-VIS and fluorescence spectrophotometry).

Flavor Research and Quality Assurance

Sensus ensures a fresh-flavor profile with batch-to-batch consistency by monitoring key aroma compounds using instrumental (GC-MS coupled with GC-Olfactometry) and descriptive sensory evaluation techniques (consumer and/or trained panels). Sensus scientist’s understand the importance of combining human sensory response with analytical data, and therefore take an integrated sensory analysis approach to develop products that have a balanced fresh-flavor profile.

Phytochemical Expertise

Phytochemical and antioxidant content of foods and beverages are important parameters affecting consumer preference and acceptance. Sensus’ scientists have extensive practical knowledge in post-harvest technology, food processing, flavor chemistry, food biochemistry and nutritional chemistry. This expertise provides Sensus with the necessary tools to offer its customers a product that retains all the bioactive and antioxidant compounds that nature provides.

Sensus’ analysis of bioactive phytochemicals includes identification and quantification of:

• Catechin and Gallate Derivatives (gallocatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, epigallocatechin gallate, etc)
• Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids
• Theaflavins Purine Alkaloids
• Procyanidins
• Anthocyanins
• Pro-vitamin A Carotenoids and Lycopene
• Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C)
• Tocopherols (vitamin E)
• Antioxidant content by the ORAC method (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, an assay recognized as the scientific standard for determining the antioxidant content of foods and dietary supplements)
• Other physiochemical analyses include theobromine and caffeine analysis

R&D tools available for Sensus customers

Our Research and Innovation Team is always prepared to work with you in every step of product development from formulation to consumer testing to shelf-life determinations.