What does percent sag measure in custards?

Percent sag is an important measurement used to evaluate the quality of custards, specifically their texture and stability. When determining the percent sag, it assesses how much a custard has settled or sagged under its own weight after being chilled. This measurement reflects the structural integrity of the custard and helps indicate its overall quality.

Objective quality refers to measurable characteristics that can be quantified, such as viscosity, texture, and in this case, percent sag. The objective quality analysis allows for a more standardized approach to food evaluation, making it easier to compare products consistently.

While texture quality is also crucial, percent sag specifically links to how well the custard's structure has held up over time rather than just its mouthfeel or texture characteristics at a single moment. Freshness quality and moisture content are important factors but do not directly relate to the measurement of percent sag. Instead, percent sag provides a tangible way to gauge the effectiveness of the custard's formulation and cooking process, leading to insights about its overall quality.