Annette Hottenstein
Program Manager, Sensory & Consumer Insights
Fuchs North America
View Statement for SSP
Our industry and the world we live in are constantly evolving, and so must we as sensory professionals. I feel that there are 3 main areas where large changes are impacting our profession:
Corporate mergers / streamlining / outsourcing – sensory evaluation can be resource intensive and SSP can help members prove their value in their business organizations. We need to leverage a quick, nimble, and effective sensory toolbox to stay relevant in today’s cost-conscious corporate world.
Artificial intelligence – sensory professionals are uniquely positioned to become AI experts within their organizations. Whether it be mining web-based consumer insights, working with an e-tongue, or utilizing advanced multivariate statistical models to create innovative solutions. SSP can be a leader in training and promoting sensory professionals as knowledge experts in this space.
Sustainability – part of SSP’s scope is “promoting professional conduct and ethical standards”. Being sustainable = being ethical. Sensory professionals can work together for sustainable solutions for our industry such as reusable/recyclable serve ware and reducing food waste. We can also design and implement testing for more sustainable products and packaging.
Biographical Statement
Annette Hottenstein is the Program Manager of Sensory & Consumer Insights for Fuchs North America in Hampstead, MD. Previously she worked for McCormick & Company, PepsiCo beverage division, and as an independent consultant over her 25-year career. In addition to sensory, she has a passion for all things green and serves as her company’s sustainability chair. Annette has a bachelor's degree in nutrition from The Pennsylvania State University and a master's degree in food science & technology from Texas A&M University. She is a published author of several sensory related papers and has spoken at numerous events such the Pangborn symposium and previous SPP conferences. Annette is looking forward to getting reengaged with SSP: she served as Secretary in 2011-2013 and was the fundraising chair for the 2012 conference. Other leadership roles include Secretary, Communications Chair, and Executive Director for the Maryland Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics and Scoutmaster for her daughter’s troop. When she’s not working, Annette can be found hiking, playing the piano, eating chocolate and hanging out with her family and beloved cats.
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