Measuring masticatory performance by visual scoring, β-carotene elution and particle analysis using Test gummy jelly

Abstract

As mastication is a multivalent function, many modalities have been used for the evaluation of its efficiency. Regarding the methods utilizing gummy jelly as a test food, evaluation method for the elution of ingredient or comminution scoring method have been reported so far. However, the relationship between the comminuted particle analysis and the dissolution analysis has not been clarified yet. This study aimed to reveal the relationship between three masticatory efficiency evaluating methods, which are the amount of eluted β-carotene, visual score and particle distribution analysis, using standardized test gummy jelly. Seventeen healthy full dentate subjects (9 males, 8 females, mean age 30.8 ± 6.9 years) participated in this study. Particle analysis was achieved using digital imaging method. The elution of β-carotene under standardized conditions to 35 degree temperature controlled water of was evaluated. Masticatory performance was also scored by visual inspection according to 10-stage rating scale. Significant correlation was observed between the score and the area of the largest particle in sample bolus (p<0.001). Significant correlation between the elution sensor output and the relative rate of the total area of the particles, whose size were in the range of 1mm2 to 50mm2, to the total area of the whole bolus particles could also be observed (p<0.001). From the results of this study, it was revealed that the dissolution of β-carotene from the test gummy jelly, visually scored masticatory performance and the particle distribution analysis provide satisfactory correlations.