This International Standard describes a method for sensory evaluation with the aim of placing a series of test
samples in rank order.
This method allows for assessing differences among several samples based on the intensity of a single
attribute, of several attributes1) or of an overall impression. It is used to find if differences exist, but cannot
determine the degree of difference that exists between samples.
The method is suited for the following cases:
a) evaluation of assessors’ performance
1) training assessors,
2) determining perception thresholds of individuals or groups;
b) product assessment
1) pre-sorting of samples
i) on a descriptive criterion,
ii) on hedonic preference;
2) determination of the influence on intensity levels of one or more parameters (e.g. order of dilution,
influence of raw materials, of production, packaging or storage methods)
i) on a descriptive criterion,
ii) on hedonic preference;
3) determination of the order of preference in a global hedonic test.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 5492, Sensory analysis — Vocabulary
ISO 6658, Sensory analysis — Methodology — General guidance
ISO 8587:2006 Referenced Document
ISO 11035 Sensory analysis - Identification and selection of descriptors for establishing a sensory profile by a multidimensional approach
ISO 3534-1 Statistics — Vocabulary and symbols — Part 1: General statistical terms and terms used in probability
ISO 5492 Sensory analysis — Vocabulary AMENDMENT 1*, 2008-01-01 Update
ISO 6658 Sensory analysis - Methodology - General guidance*, 2017-07-01 Update
ISO 8586-1 Sensory analysis; general guidance for the selection, training and monitoring of assessors; part 1: selected assessors
ISO 8586-2 Sensory analysis - General guidance for the selection, training and monitoring of assessors - Part 2: Expert sensory assessors*, 2008-06-01 Update
ISO 8589 Sensory analysis — General guidance for the design of test rooms AMENDMENT 1*, 2014-06-15 Update