Device for acoustic measurement of food texture using a piezoelectric sensor

We have developed a device that enables direct measurement of food texture. The device inserts a probe into a food sample and detects the vibration caused by the sample's fracture. A piezoelectric sensor was used to detect that vibration. The frequency response of the piezoelectric sensor was measured. Results showed that the sensor covered the full audio frequency range up to 20 kHz. The device probe was designed so that its resonance was not in the signal detection band. An octave multi-filter was used to analyze the obtained signals. Preliminary data were obtained and used to quantify the sample texture. Quantification of food texture was possible by using the device together with the analytical tool. We also discuss the application of the device to investigation of physical and structural aspects of food. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.