How a Texture Analyser works
Understand what a Texture Analyser is and how it is applied for texture assessment.
What is a Texture Analyser and how does it work?
A Texture Analyser is a texture measurement system that moves in either an up or down direction to compress or stretch a sample.
The travelling arm is fitted with a Load Cell and records the force response of the sample to the deformation that is imposed on it. Force, Distance and Time data is collected and usually presented as a curve on a graph which, when analysed, indicates the texture of the sample.
Texture Analysers provide the operators with ultimate control and test flexibility for measuring all types of physical/textural properties of solid and semi-solid systems by their ability to accommodate a wide range of probes and attachments (devices to test food structure) that can be attached to the Texture Analyser base and/or arm.
A Texture Analyser is the source of ultimate objective quantification of whether the food is ‘more crispy, firm, sticky, etc. as a result of a new technique or the addition of a certain ingredient to the formulation.
Here are some examples of an imitative test and a typical graph produced from Exponent Connect software.
What does a Texture Analyser measure?
Depending upon the chosen probe or attachment, the Texture Analyser can perform compression, extension, cutting, extruding, bending and shearing tests – and in doing so, can measure properties such as fracturability, chewiness, stickiness, consistency, bite force and springiness, to name a few.
There is a vast range of physical properties which can be measured by a Texture Analyser. Visit our Texture Properties page to learn more.
Operational Options
All Stable Micro Systems Connect series Texture Analysers are capable of operation by the Control Panel as standard, as well as by a desktop or laptop PC. In addition, they may also be operated from a mobile phone or tablet using the Browser Interface.
Whether you are new to texture analysis/mechanical property measurement, are an experienced super user, or have specific requirements, you have the flexibility to choose how you want to interact with your instrument.
We offer three ways to run your instrument. Each can be used independently from each other, or you can have a combination of all three.
Standalone operation by Control Panel
Connect to server via a Browser Interface
Direct connection via Exponent Connect software
Why measure texture?
Successful production and quality control rely on the ability to measure and test at every stage of the manufacturing process. Without accurate measurement, consistent control is not possible.
A Texture Analyser is an indispensable tool for quantifying the texture and physical properties of a ‘gold standard’ product, providing a reliable benchmark for future comparison during manufacture. This process is essential to ensuring consistent textural quality. It can also be used to evaluate and compare your product against those of competitors, offering valuable insights for maintaining a competitive edge.
Learn more about why you should measure texture.
Typical texture analysis tests
Depending upon the chosen probes or texture analysis grips and attachments used, the Texture Analyser is capable of performing a wide variety of test types.
One of the most common applications of a Texture Analyser is measuring the hardness of food or testing the firmness of products across a wide range of industries. A historically popular method for this is Texture Profile Analysis (TPA) – a two-cycle compression test that automatically calculates a variety of food texture properties. Learn more about TPA
Texture Technologies, our USA distributor, also gives an excellent overview. Read it here
Where will I use a Texture Analyser?
Texture analysis is most often applied in a practical and transparent way. Core product characteristics are first identified through sensory or consumer studies, then reproduced under controlled, instrument-based conditions for accurate measurement. Texture measurements can be applied in several areas:
Research and development: Used in longer-term studies to understand both micro and macro structures, or to support the creation of new ingredients and unique products.
New product development: Applied in faster, short-term projects to benchmark key attributes. The Texture Analyser supports the design of products tailored to specific consumer markets and helps monitor the effects of formulation changes and shelf life.
Process development: Used in an engineering context to understand key stages of production. Measurements reveal how processing steps affect product quality and how they can be adjusted to achieve the best results. Insights gained at this stage can be transferred directly to factory applications.
In factory settings, texture measurements must be simple, reproducible, and reliable. Using the Texture Analyser on the production line can reduce product waste, minimise downtime, and prevent consumer dissatisfaction caused by non-conformance.
True quality control depends on the ability to measure products against defined standards. If deviations occur, the Texture Analyser helps identify whether changes to formulation or processing are required to bring the product back within acceptable tolerances.
Texture is also critical from the consumer’s perspective: if a product does not feel right, they are unlikely to buy it again. Incorrect physical properties in an ingredient or component can also disrupt processing efficiency, leading to higher waste and downtime.
Ultimately, if a manufacturer cannot consistently supply supermarkets with products that meet expectations, retailers may simply switch to another supplier. A reliable instrument for measuring texture helps avoid these risks, ensuring product quality, consistency, and consumer satisfaction.
