Case Study: Sensory Tasting
Enhancing Flavors – SCA Houston 2025
The coffee industry is navigating a period of uncertainty, marked by fluctuating tariffs, volatile pricing, and challenges in resource availability. In times like these, it’s more important than ever to explore innovative approaches that maintain the quality and flavor of coffee products. Leveraging alternatives such as natural flavor modifiers can help ensure a consistently enjoyable coffee experience despite external pressures.
At this year’s 2025 Specialty Coffee Association Expo in Houston, Beck Flavors Sensory & Analytical Scientist, Megan Samson, conducted a sensory tasting test comparing a Tanzania Robusta coffee to see if flavor modifiers helped improve the overall product preference.
A Natural Flavor Modifier designed to reduce bitterness and enhance sweetness was tested on a Robusta coffee from Tanzania. The only difference between Coffees A and B is the application of the flavor modifier. SCA participants (n=48) blindly tasted Robusta Coffees A and B with 65% agreeing that the coffee with the Flavor Modifier (Coffee B) was more drinkable largely due to its improved Finish and somewhat thanks to Bitterness improvement and Coffee Roast Flavor.
Check out the video below to watch highlights from our sensory test at SCA below:
What are Bitter Blockers?
There are numerous natural and artificial ingredients used in food and beverages that contain polyphenols, which results in a bitter and astringent taste. At Beck Flavors, we utilize several methods to block these unwanted compounds.
Bitter blockers are used in flavoring to reduce or mask the perception of bitterness in foods and beverages. The purpose of these compounds is to enhance the overall taste experience, making products more palatable without affecting other flavor components. Bitter blockers are particularly useful in products that contain ingredients naturally associated with bitterness, such as certain vegetables, coffee, cocoa, or artificial sweeteners.
Do you have a product that could benefit from one of Beck Flavors sensory tests? Have questions on where to get started? Our team is here to help.
MEGAN SAMSON
Sensory & Analytical Scientist
SARA BORUSIEWICH
Director of Business Development of Coffee & Tea Sales
CARRIE CUBBERLEY
Director of Coffee & Tea Sales