Product development

Candy product development, from idea to finished recipe

Most new candy starts as an idea and a few kitchen batches. I help you turn it into a formula with specs, a process that fits your equipment, and a product ready to launch.

  • Free 30-minute call
  • $149/hour
  • Replies within 2 business days
Cracking toffee on a cooling table

Product development

What I help with

  • Concept to formula

    Turn an idea into a formula with targets and specs.

  • Ingredient choices

    Sweeteners, gelling agents, fats and inclusions that do the job.

  • Texture and flavor

    The bite, chew and flavor you have in mind.

  • Process design

    Cooking, forming and cooling steps that fit your equipment.

  • Shelf life

    Plan a study so you know how long it lasts.

  • First production runs

    Plan the first runs and decide what to measure.

Note

Development happens in your kitchen or plant, on-site or by video while your team makes the batches. Travel time is $75/hour, plus expenses at cost.

How it works

Four steps, starting with a free call

  1. Step 1: Send the form

    Your name, email, company and what you make.

    Two minutes

  2. Step 2: I reply within 2 business days

    With a few questions and some times to talk.

    By email

  3. Step 3: A free 30-minute call

    What you’re making and where it’s stuck.

    30 minutes, free

  4. Step 4: An hours estimate, then the work

    Once we agree on terms, we sign an NDA before you share formulas.

    $149/hour

Background

Relevant experience

  • Kerry

    Developed gummies, chewables, marshmallows and hard candies for supplements, and now leads programs from concept through commercialization.

  • Conagra Brands

    Launched 10 new products, including 2 made on a new production line.

  • Procter & Gamble

    Took a starchless jelly production line from development through commercial manufacturing.

More about my background

Questions

What does a candy product developer do?

Turns an idea into a candy you can make and sell: the formula, the process, and the specs your team or co-manufacturer works to. That covers texture, flavor, shelf life and how the candy runs on your equipment.

I have an idea but no recipe yet. Can you help?

Yes. We start with what you want the candy to be, then build the formula and process around it, in your kitchen or with your co-manufacturer.

Do you make samples or prototypes?

No. I don’t have my own lab or kitchen. I work with your team, on-site or by video, while they make the batches.

How long does a new candy product take?

It depends on the candy and how far along you are. After the free call, I’ll estimate the hours by email.

Free 30-minute call

Have a candy project in mind?

Tell me what you’re making and where it’s stuck. The first call is free.

kathleenoc96@gmail.com