Online Sensory Training Reshapes Coffee Tasting Skills
2023 study reveals a 15% improvement in aroma recognition among coffee professionals in just six weeks
A landmark 2023 peer-reviewed study by the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with CoffeeMind Academy, has demonstrated that an innovative online training program—combining sensory exercises, cognitive tasks, and gamification—can significantly enhance the aroma recognition skills of coffee professionals.
Published in the Journal of Sensory Studies and led by researcher Ida Steen, the study involved 44 coffee professionals aged 22–52 in a 12-week crossover trial. The program consisted of six weeks of intensive online training using the Le Nez du Café aroma set—standard in SCA and CQI certifications—paired with memory games, focus exercises, and mindfulness breathing, followed by a six-week control period with simple weekly sensory activities.
Key Findings
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15% average improvement in aroma recognition.
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Over 30% improvement in detecting coffee pulp, toast, roasted peanuts, green peas, clove, cooked beef, straw, and pepper.
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Persistent difficulty with aromas like rubber, roasted coffee, medicinal, and blackcurrant.
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Skills retained after the training period ended.
Industry Implications
The detailed aroma-by-aroma mapping challenges existing certification kits, showing some aromas are too easy (like lemon) or too difficult (like medicinal) to be reliable indicators of sensory skill. These findings may prompt organizations like SCA and CQI to review their training and exam materials.
The Cognitive Edge
The program leveraged neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural pathways through practice—by combining aroma recognition with cognitive training to strengthen working memory, focus, and decision-making during evaluations. Participants who completed all six daily tasks achieved the greatest improvements, underscoring the value of structured, disciplined training.
Beyond Coffee
This model can be applied to wine, chocolate, and other sensory fields, and even adapted for smell rehabilitation programs, such as for post-COVID patients.
Conclusion
By proving that online, gamified, and cognitive-enhanced training can deliver measurable, lasting improvements, the study offers a scalable and engaging alternative to traditional, in-person sensory training—reshaping professional coffee education worldwide.
