In sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and adhesives, the consistency and performance of gelatin-based products are critical. One key quality indicator is Bloom strength, a standardized measure of gel firmness. To ensure product reliability and market value, manufacturers rely on a gel strength tester to conduct Bloom strength testing, providing repeatable, accurate results that conform to international standards like ISO 9665 and GME Monograph 2004.
Bloom strength testing involves compressing the surface of a prepared gel sample using a cylindrical probe until a specific deflection is reached. The force required is recorded as the Bloom value. Higher Bloom values typically indicate firmer gels, which command higher commercial value. The precision of this process hinges on variables such as:
· Gel concentration and molecular weight
· Hydration and tempering time
· Test vessel dimensions and temperature
· Instrument resolution and penetration depth
A modern gel strength tester—such as the GST-01 from Cell Instruments—automates these parameters to reduce user error and standardize results across facilities.
Gelatin and other hydrocolloids (agar, xanthan, guar gum) are integral to product formulation in food, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries. Reliable gelatin texture analysis ensures:
· Accurate measurement of elasticity, modulus, and rupture force
· Optimization of product consistency in applications like yogurt, capsules, creams, and confectionery
· Efficient raw material screening and supplier evaluation
Texture analyzers equipped with the appropriate probes perform standardized compression tests, helping quality control professionals maintain consistency batch after batch.
A series of commercial gelatin samples were tested using standardized conditions per GME and ISO 9665 protocols. The samples were hydrated, tempered, and molded under controlled conditions. Using a 12.7 mm diameter probe with no radius (as recommended by AOAC), a software-controlled gel strength tester applied a vertical force to determine Bloom values. These values were then used to assess raw material quality and ensure formulation integrity.
Cell Instruments' GST-01 Gel Strength Tester is a high-precision tool built to help manufacturers across various industries standardize food gel quality control. Its features include:
· Automated control of temperature, penetration depth, and speed
· Repeatable Bloom, elasticity, and modulus measurements
· Compliance with ISO and GME guidelines
· Easy-to-use software for real-time data analysis
Whether you’re producing gelatin desserts, pharmaceutical capsules, or cosmetic gels, investing in reliable gelatin texture analysis supports your brand’s quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
In today’s competitive market, where ingredient quality directly affects product performance and consumer satisfaction, using a certified gel strength tester for Bloom strength testing is not optional—it’s essential. Cell Instruments offers cutting-edge technology and expert support to help you enhance product development, streamline food gel quality control, and stay ahead in the industry.