Our Services
Discrimination Testing
Advanced Sensory Methods: Expert deployment of tetrad, triangle, 2-Alternative Forced Choice and custom discrimination methods for reliable results.
Thurstonian Modeling: Advanced statistical modeling to mathematically quantify the exact magnitude of perceived product differences (d').
Optimized Statistical Power: Scientifically calculated sample sizes designed to minimize risk and detect meaningful product differences relevant to consumers.
Flexible Operational Testing: Seamless execution via Central Location Test (CLT) at our various test locations and through Home Use Test (HUT) models.
Why Choose Us?
Industry Expertise Backed by Academic Innovation
Our team leverages more than 30 years of foundational academic research to deliver highly reliable insights from your discrimination testing projects. Our background includes pioneering work in the application of Thurstonian modeling - a mathematical framework that fundamentally shaped how the modern consumer goods industry quantifies sensory differences. Every project benefits directly from this level of deep scientific expertise.
Our Applications
Is Discrimination Testing Right For Your Project?
Utilize robust statistical methods to verify product integrity, consistency, and parity.
Ingredient Substitution
Determine if a raw material change, supplier switch, or formula optimization is perceptible to consumers.
Quality Control
Verify strict product consistency across different manufacturing facilities, batches and production runs.
Shelf-Life
Track aging and storage variables to pinpoint exactly when sensory degradation becomes noticeable.
Product Optimization
Validate formula or process improvements are statistically perceptible to consumers before launch.
Product Parity
Establish statistical proof that a revised product is functionally equivalent to your gold standard.
Claims Substantiation
Generate highly defensible evidence required for product consistency or performance claims.
How It Works
A Rigorous Four-Step Process
We ensure your project moves seamlessly from technical scoping to statistically sound, actionable data.
Initial Consultation
We partner with your team to review your operational context, product parameters, and risk tolerance thresholds.
1
Experimental Design
Our scientists calculate the required statistical power and build a customized testing strategy (such as tetrad vs. triangle).
2
Methodological Execution
We manage sample preparation, environmental controls, and data collection under strict laboratory or remote protocols.
3
Project Findings
We deliver a clear, actionable report with data insights and recommendations to guide your decision.
4
Our Experience
Check Our Case Studies
See how DSI has helped brands make confident product decisions through sensory science.
Cracker Product Optimization
September 2025
Orange Juice Quality Control
October 2024
Salsa Product Parity
November 2025
Testimonial
“The strategic planning and market analysis provided by Davis Sensory Institute were game-changers for our expansion. Their team is professional, knowledgeable, and truly invested in our success.”
Sarah K., COO of Global Markets Inc.
DAVIS SENSORY INSTITUTE .LLC
Contact
dsiteam@davissensory.com
(530) 750-6503
946 Olive Drive, Suite 9
Davis, CA 95616
Hours
Monday - Friday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Note: Consumer studies may affect business hours.
© Davis Sensory Institute 2026
Architecture Design Credits: Maria
Selected Photo Credits: Julia Ogrydziak
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about methodology selection, panel requirements, and the math behind discrimination testing.
Absolutely. We routinely apply these strict methodologies to personal care, cosmetics, and household products to evaluate overall similarity or on specific attributes like skin feel, fragrance longevity, and topical consistency.
Yes. Our protocols utilize all required aspects of statistical modeling to ensure your data meets the high standard of defensibility required for claim substantiation.
It depends on the project goals. While some discrimination tests utilize trained descriptive panels for theoretically more sensitive detection, others utilize screened consumers to see if a difference is noticeable to the everyday user.
Timeline varies based on your target demographic and testing location, but our established local infrastructure allows us to execute standard on-site evaluations and deliver final reporting efficiently.
Every project begins with an in-depth alignment phase. We analyze your commercial objectives, production tolerances, and target demographics to customize a testing strategy that balances scientific rigor with your business timeline.