The Single Blade Shear Cell is used for determining tenderness, fibrousness, crispness and other similar characteristics where a single blade for a cutting or shearing action may be more desirable than a multi-bladed cell. The CA-1 test cell employs a base sample holder with a shear-slot and single flat movable blade. The shear slot is approximately 1/8 inch thick and slides in guide ways at both ends of the cell base of the shear slot so that the sample may be completely cut. The movable blade is attached to the load cell.