The invention comprises new apparatus for the analysis of flours and doughs, a method of carrying out such analyses, and the use of data obtained from such analyses in the control of baking processes. The apparatus comprises at least one, and preferably 2, pressure chambers (2, 3). A dough sample (4) is placed between the chambers and may be inflated into one of the chambers (2,3) by adjusting the relative chamber pressures. The extent of inflation may be measured by a laser displacement sensor (8) and the temperature of the dough may be controlled. Inflation data can be used to calculate dough and flour properties and to control various steps in the manufacture of a baked product.