Standardization News

Finding and training people to evaluate the characteristics of toothpaste just got easier with a new ASTM International standard (E2978, Guide for Screening and Training of Assessors and a General Approach for the Sensory Evaluation of Toothpaste Appearance, Flavor and Texture).

The standard describes how manufacturers can recruit and screen potential toothpaste assessors from the community, ensuring that these people have the ability to identify odors, tastes, textures, sensations and more. In addition, the standard incorporates guidance on testing facility environments and variations in methods such as administering toothpaste from a toothbrush or a spoon.

Toothpaste manufacturers can use this new standard to help develop their products and to communicate product attributes to consumers in advertising and packaging. Both toothpaste manufacturers and independent testers will find the standard to be a practical guide based on sound sensory science.

"Most sensory evaluation standards and literature are food-based," says ASTM member Jason Newlon, principal scientist, OTC Health Care, The Procter & Gamble Company. "This helps to further the application of sensory standards to non-food categories, which are definitely in the minority."

A task group in Subcommittee E18.07 on Personal Care and Household Evaluation developed the new standard and encourages interested parties to join their work. Next, the task group plans to develop a standard for toothbrushes and is looking for participants who have an interest in sensory evaluation of oral care products.

To purchase standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (tel +1.877.909.ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Jason W. Newlon, Ph.D., The Procter & Gamble Company • Mason, Ohio • tel +1.513.622.3222 | ASTM Staff: Scott Orthey • tel +1.610.832.9730 | Upcoming Meeting: Oct. 27-30, 2015 • October Committee Week • Tampa, Fla.