Sensory Directed Analysis (SDA) is the process which utilizes the separation power of gas chromatography in combination with the human nose and mass spectrometry to identify sensory-active compounds.
This learning hub provides an overview of the principles, methods, and applications of Sensory Directed Analysis (SDA) for identifying sensory-active compounds responsible for off-odors and aromas in complex sample matrices. SDA combines sensory evaluation with advanced analytical techniques, including gas chromatography with simultaneous olfactory and mass spectrometric detection (GC-O/MS), to establish a direct correlation between human sensory perception and chemical composition. By integrating sensory data with instrumental analysis, SDA enables the accurate identification of odor-active compounds while minimizing the risk of overlooking or misinterpreting critical sensory information.
Applications demonstrate the use of the GERSTEL Universal Platform to perform thin film solid-phase microextraction (TF-SPME) and GC-O/MS for identifying off-odor compounds in paper products, characterizing the key sensory-active compounds responsible for off-odors formed by lipid oxidation in food products, and identifying off-odor compounds in fragrance-free makeup-removing face wipes.
By accessing this learning hub, you will learn:
- The principles of sensory-directed analytical workflows.
- How GC-O/MS links sensory perception with chemical identification.
- Approaches for identifying key sensory-active compounds in complex products.
- Strategies for interpreting aroma profiles and prioritizing odor-active regions.
- Applications of SDA for off-odor investigation, product development, and quality assurance.
Widen your knowledge by accessing the resources that include application notes, factsheets, and an on-demand webinar that focuses on how SDA is used to solve some real-world off-odor compounds. Details below:
- [Application Note] Identification of Off-Odor Compounds in Paper Products using Thin Film Solid Phase Microextraction (TF-SPME) and GC-MS/O
- [Application Note] Identification of Off-Odor Compounds Associated with Lipid Oxidation in Food Products Using Sensory Directed Analysis
- [Application Note] Identification of Off-Odor Compounds in Fragrance-Free, Cosmetic Face Wipes Using Sensory Directed Analysis
- [On-demand Presentation] Sensory Directed Analysis: A Method for Identifying Off-Odors
by Dr. Nicole Kfoury, Applications Scientist, GERSTEL, Inc. - [Factsheet] Sensory Directed Analysis
Plus
Sign up for the SDA Workshop on 22-24 September, 2026 that includes lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive discussions to solve critical challenges in a wide variety of products and sample types.
