DIN 10973:2013-06

The standard has been prepared by the Food and Agricultural Products Standards Committee (NAL), Working Committee NA 057-01-01 AA "Sensorik" ("Sensory analysis"). It specifies a sensory test method with which a test group determines whether a test sample to be assessed lies within (in) or outside of (out) its previously defined product-relevant sensory specification. The in/out test is used for testing products that influence finished goods (raw materials, intermediate goods and packaging materials), as well as for finished goods themselves. Moreover, it is applicable for testing the release of finished goods, for determination and checking storage stability and for noting quality changes due to processing and distribution. Additional scopes include assessment of marketability, performance of conformity tests and customer complaints. For comprehensive problem definitions, the descriptive test in accordance with DIN 10964 is referred to. During revision of the first edition in 2006, specifications for the maximum number of samples in relation to the test sample were included. Moreover, a requirement for the decision rule has been included. The standard also includes information regarding the selection and number of sensory assessors, the test room, the selection of apparatus and preparation of the test samples. Moreover, examples of assessment forms and their application (Annex A and Annex B) as well as examples for expression of results (Annex C) are provided. The normative references and the bibliography have been updated.