I had an opportunity to be a food tester for the Sensory and Consumer Testing department in the Food Innovation Center (a joint project between the Oregon Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University) nearby at 1207 NW Naito Parkway. I signed up and had filled out questionnaires on line and this time was called in as a substitute, having been on the accepted list but not initially selected. It was exciting to be a part of it and in addition I was PAID $25.
The group of us went into individual cubicles where we each had a computer to use, a sink, paper towels, a picture of pear varieties and a little door like the kind when you give a UA at a doctor's office, but here they give you food pieces to taste.
I was given pear slices, one at a time and asked questions regarding their sweetness, juiciness, etc. and later how much I would pay for such a pear.
After I was through, I was given a quick peek for "behind the scenes" to see the technicians as they were lining up the pears for the next group of taster/testers.
The Food Innovation Center deals with: food product development, packaging and processing engineering, storage and shelf-life evaluation, sensory and consumer testing, market planning, business development and local, national, international market access and development
I live near the Center. If you live in Portland, contact them and see if you, too, can take part. You will be given questions before each test and will notified if selected. Try this e-mail to see if you can be a taster: consumer.info@oregonstate.edu
