Shows
Flavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 53: The Secret Sauce: Driving Flavor InnovationPodcast Episode 53: The Secret Sauce: Driving Flavor InnovationIn this episode, host Randee Donovan explores the flavorful world of sauces, dressings, dips, and spreads with Product Development Scientist Erika James, and Senior Product Manager Roger Lane. They uncover how these everyday condiments drive innovation and identity. Join us as we reveal the secret sauce that keeps consumers coming back for more. Tune in to learn:How sauces are true “flavor powerhouses” How LTOs fuel excitement and brand loyaltyGlobal flavor influences shaping 2026 and beyondWhat your favorite condiment says about you
2025-12-1946 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 52: Chasing the Gold Standard in Flavor CreationIn this episode we explore how the food industry defines and creates benchmarks for flavor perfection using gold standards. Paul Hoffman, Senior Scientist, reveals how sensory, culinary, and flavor experts collaborate to identify the best versions of products, ingredients and recipes and translate them into a shared language. Tune in to understand how aligning with these benchmarks can deliver authenticity, consistency and emotional resonance which is true gold when it comes to great flavor.
2025-12-0532 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 51: Hot & Spicy: The Sensory Side of HeatJoin Randee Donovan and Dr. Elizabeth Clark as they explore how culture, generation, and science shape our love for spicy food. From global flavor trends and pop culture, to the chemistry behind heat perception, this episode dives into what makes spicy food so fascinating — and how you can develop products for consumers’ spicy-hot cravings. Listen now and spice up your perspective! Skip ahead to hear:19:00 – “What makes heat?”26:45 – How to measure heat41:00 - Heat delivery factors
2025-10-0354 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 50: Congruent FlavorsIn this episode, our host, Randee Donovan, talks with Laura Partida, Principal Flavorist, and Jason Mittelheuser, Sr. Principal Scientist. They explore how congruent flavors help create harmony in product formulations. Discover how the right complementary flavors can be an advantage to support taste attributes within a difficult product base, how "approachable adventure" is used to build complexity in the taste experience, and beyond!
2025-08-2934 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 49: ReformulationIn this episode, our new host, Randee Donovan, sits down with Annelieke Van Ooij, Product Development Director, and Alex Brewer, Regulatory Affairs Director, as they guide us through all things product reformulation. From increased synthetic dye bans and ongoing FDA updates, shifting regulations are forcing brands to rethink their product formulation. Our experts break down today’s evolving regulatory landscape and provide technical guidance that will help you formulate without compromising on taste.
2025-07-1439 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 48: Flavor Forecast 25th EditionIn this episode, we chat with Executive Chef Hadar Cohen Aviram and Product Manager Carrie Rock about all things Flavor Forecast. What will be the next trend to shake up your products and your consumers? From Tropical Vibes to the layered complexity of Charred and Smoked, our experts explore the trends that will shape the way we all flavor, cook and eat in the upcoming year and beyond. Plus, discover the ways the 2025 Flavor of the Year is heating things up!
2025-06-1142 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 47: What is Citrus?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Robert Cannon, Director of Analytical Sciences, and Hedy Kulka, Principal Flavorist, as they chat all things citrus. They break down the nuances of different citrus fruits, methods of production, and how they can be utilized in product development. Stick around to hear some of the challenges that come with citrus and how citrus fruits can be used to support taste challenges.
2025-04-0230 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 46: What is a Seasoning?In this episode, we sit down with Jared Turetsky, Senior Product Manager, and Jill Breiner, Senior Principal Scientist, as they chat all things seasoning. They break down how complex seasonings are and the different applications that can be enhanced with seasonings. Stick around to hear some cool trends that they are seeing and hear about the solutions that seasonings can provide to product development.
2025-03-0638 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 45: Exploring the History & Creation of ChocolateIn this episode, Corey wraps up his last episode as host and introduces our new host (and this episode’s guest) Dr. AJ Taylor, Scientist II, Innovation. They will be discussing all things chocolate and how complex chocolate flavor can be. They dive into the origins of chocolate, changes and updates in the chocolate world, and eventually taste some single origin, specialty chocolates as well!
2025-01-1539 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 44: Better Together: Flavor PairingsAre there flavor pairings that outshine classics like chocolate or vanilla? Which flavor combinations are more enticing than singular profiles? In this episode, we chat with Stephany Peña, Associate Customer Marketing Manager, and Izzy Granowicz, Associate Scientist, about our data-driven take on flavor pairing strategy—Approachable Adventure—to discover what flavors are truly 'Better Together.' Tune in as we explore surprising insights, creative flavor pairings, and the trends shaping how we experience taste.
2024-12-0434 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 43: Growing a Sustainability PlatformFor food and beverage companies looking to drive a more sustainable product and brand, it can be hard to make meaningful sustainability goals, implement effective strategies and evaluate their impact. In this episode, Marketing Manager, Corporate ESG & Sustainability Emma Gladstone and Senior Director Global Sustainability Kathy Rostkowski give practical advice on how to drive an effective sustainable platform – one that benefits the planet, consumers, and your organization’s business growth. Learn about the interconnectivity of environmental and social responsibility and the ways to drive a more sustainable future for you and your products.
2024-10-3130 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 42: Clean & Natural: A Journey from Our Farms to Your FormulaIn this episode, we speak with Thomas Kountz, a Clean Flavor Chemist, and Sarah Hager, Director of Business Development, and discuss how to address business needs for clean labels using agricultural spices and herbs, extracts, and natural and organic flavors. They also delve into solving formulation issues through specialized technologies. Tune in to learn more about this dynamic consumer space and the innovative formulation solutions for this challenging environment!
2024-09-2333 min
That's A Food Job!What Being a Food Science PhD is Really Like with AJ Taylor, Ph.D. is a Scientist II, Innovation at McCormick FONA | Ep. 96 AJ Taylor, Ph.D. is a Scientist II, Innovation at McCormick FONA who recently graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign with a Ph.D. in food science where his research focused on understanding the physiochemical and microbiological aspects of cocoa bean fermentation. This research is looking at ways to understand how microbes affect the quality and flavour profile of the resulting chocolate. Obtaining a Ph.D. was a rewarding but challenging experience for AJ. In addition to his research AJ acted as a graduate teaching assistant who helped to teach food science to students. ...
2024-09-2248 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 41: A Spoonful of IndulgenceIn this episode, we dig in for a taste of indulgent flavors! Join Food Scientist and indulgent food junkies Rob Bowen & Paul Hoffman as they discuss their favorite foods & flavors and what makes them indulgent. Listen in to learn how YOU can turn your bland into grand!
2024-08-2730 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 40: Supplement Development Tips and Flavor TrendsIn this episode, we dive into all things vitamins, minerals and supplements with Health & Nutrition Senior Scientist, Beth Julian, and Product Manager, Katie Tamburo. This duo of experts walk through the supplement development process and the trends that inspire the flavors. For example, did you know that berry and citrus flavors are most popular in a variety of gummy supplements? Tune in to discover the insights of the supplement space.
2024-07-2435 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 39: 2024 Trend FlashIn this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Senior Consumer & Market Insights Manager, as she explores how she keeps her pulse on industry trends and a quick flash into what micro trends we are keeping a closer eye on this year. We discuss the top-rated consumer trends: cooking at home, functional foods and beverages, clean label, and global tastes—where we are spotting them and how flavor plays a role. Tune in to see a flash into our favorite trends for this year!
2024-06-2731 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 38: Trends Inspiring Alcohol FlavorsIn this episode, we dive into the influences shaping the alcohol space with Senior Beverage Scientist, Vanessa Chavez and Beverage Product Manager, Chloe Morris. The pair covers the latest trends within spiked sips, including classic, well-loved tastes, amplified alcohol notes, unique mixology techniques, and more. For instance, did you know that flavor can help replicate the taste experience of adding smoke to a cocktail? Tune in to discover creative innovation pathways within the alcohol landscape!
2024-05-2237 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 37: Snack-ificationIn this episode, we chat with Jared Turetsky, Senior Product Manager of our industrial seasonings business. Can’t get enough of that crispy, crunchy, salty goodness? Well, neither can we! In this episode, we discuss consumer trends and the state of the salty snack market in North America. Jared explores some of the exciting findings found in their 2024 North America Salty Snack Study. We dive into innovation tactics, understanding your brand’s equity, and the trending flavors of tomorrow that may end up in the salty snack aisle.
2024-04-1044 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 36: A Taste of the Life as a FlavoristIn this episode, we speak with Senior Flavorist, Katie Pappas, where she takes you behind the scenes in becoming a flavorist, a day in the life, and how to work smarter with flavor. Learn how to build a flavor and what taste challenges they can overcome when building specific flavors - stick around to hear what flavors she has built!
2024-03-0729 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 35: Flavor Forecast 24th EditionIn this episode, we chat with Hadar Cohen Aviram, Executive Chef, and Sunny Levine, Associate III Direct Manager, about all things Flavor Forecast. Ever thought of acidity as a craveability enhancer? Or that there's a new overall movement in cuisine mashups? And what is the Flavor of the Year? Join us as we chat through 2024’s Flavor forecast, and discuss the trends that will shape the way we flavor, cook and eat in the upcoming year, and beyond.
2024-02-0847 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 34: Predicting Food TrendsIn this episode, we chat with Lisa Demme, Senior Marketing Manager and Carrie Rock, Product Manager about how to see food trends. They talk about how it doesn’t have to be complicated; attend a local food festival, spend some extra time in your local grocery store, grab a bite at a food truck, or intentionally scroll through your social media feed.
2024-01-0437 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 33: Product Safety & QualityIn this episode, Katie Wang, Quality Manager, and Melissa Valenzuela, Quality Systems Manager, dive deep into their roles in food safety & product quality. Hear about their backgrounds and career paths, quality control programs, audit compliance, traceability, and a day-in-the-life in quality at a flavor manufacturing site.
2023-12-0423 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 32: Flavor LanguageWriting and talking persuasively about flavor can be very difficult, but getting it right is important to growing a food or flavor business. In this episode, we speak with Mary Alice Murray, Senior Consumer & Market Insights Manager, as she explains what Flavor Language is, why language is so important to influencing flavor choices, and how we can use flavor language more effectively in order to overcome the challenges associated with talking about flavor. Tune in to learn about how flavor can be articulate through language in order to influence others’ flavor choices.
2023-11-0127 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 31: SustainabilityIn this episode, we talk all things sustainability with McCormick’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Dr. Michael Okoroafor. Michael speaks about the need to collaborate to preserve the planet for future generations. In addition to tips on how each of us can individually reduce our impact on the environment, we explore the role food and beverage professionals play in securing that future. Michael shares how businesses can benefit from focusing on sustainability by “doing well by doing good,” as well as how his own background set him on his career trajectory.
2023-09-2734 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 30: Analytical ChemistryIn this episode, we speak with Adam O'Leary, Analytical Scientist, and he walks us through the technology and instrumentation used when working with flavors. Learn how gas chromatography helps separate complex flavors and identify specific chemicals. Stick around to hear how analytical chemist can duplicate flavors or even substitute chemicals when needed.
2023-09-0731 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 29: Weird Flavor PairingsIn this episode, Molly Zimmerman, Innovation Manager, and Gena Tiesch, Senior Product Manager, dive deep into weird flavor pairings. Hear how post-covid consumers are partaking in daring behavior and becoming more adventurous with the foods they consume. Stick around to hear about a savory-flavored beverage, new ways to enjoy strawberries, and a live tasting of a brunch-y beverage.
2023-08-0328 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 28: Trend FlashIn this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Senior Consumer & Market Insights Manager, as she explores how she keeps her pulse on industry trends and a quick flash into what areas we are keeping a closer eye on. We discuss five trend areas: nostalgia, experiential value, healthy halo, frugal gourmet, and convenience—where we are spotting them and how flavor plays a role. Tune in to see a flash into our favorite trends for this year!
2023-07-1027 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 27: Elevated vs. Essential FlavorsIn this episode, we speak with Kaylind Cook, Scientist, and Katie Tamburo, Sr. Associate Product Manager, as we explore essential vs. elevated flavors. They discuss how everyday, fan-favorite flavors, like chocolate and strawberry, can be elevated to exciting experiences for consumers. They dive into the reasons behind why consumers seek unique flavors, the impact of social media, and the importance of texture. Tune in to hear about some fun examples and ideas of elevated vs. essential flavors.
2023-05-2431 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 26: Plant-Based PartyIn this episode, we speak with Carrie Rock, Senior Associate Product Manager, and Hadar Cohen Aviram, Executive Chef, where they discuss the growth, popularity, and history of plant-based eating. They explore the different types of plant-based consumers, how to make plants the "star of the show", and all the opportunities in this segment. Tune in to be a part of our plant-based party!
2023-04-2749 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 25: Exploring Fruit FlavorsIn this episode, we speak with Hannah Subgrunski, Applications Technologist and Robin Prazak, Principal Flavorist about all things fruit. They explore the latest fruit trends, top categories they are seeing in the market, and the complexity of fruit profiles. They also discuss how to combat sulfur and bitter taste challenges that come with some fruits. Stick around to hear the fascinating history of how some fruits have evolved over time.
2023-03-2944 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 24: Flavor Forecast 23rd EditionIn this episode, we speak with Veronica Collins, Senior Global Content & Communications Manager and Carrie Rock, Senior Associate Product Manager about the Flavor Forecast 23rd Edition. We chat about this year’s exciting trends, which are an answer to the cravings observed around the world, with the comeback of full fats (Full Flavored Fats), French cuisine outside of the exclusive fine dining experience (Everyday French), and the multi-sensorial offerings of heat and flavor (Beyond Heat).
2023-02-2241 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 23: Food Science as a CareerIn this episode, we speak with Katie Sudler, Community Education Director, where she explores the power of education and how it impacts the food and beverage industry. From teaching teachers about Food Science during Teachers Institute Day to facilitating hands on experiments with students, she unveils the different types of careers one can pursue in the industry.
2022-12-2830 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 22: Humanization of PetIn this episode, we speak with Lisa Demme, Market Director, and Kristin Fox, Junior Flavorist, and they dive into the pet care industry. They explore the humanization of pet care products, what helps pet parents make their buying decisions and what format of products are on the rise.
2022-11-3035 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 21: Beverage PrototypesIn this episode, we speak with Gabby Quintana, Senior Research Chef, and Annelieke Van Ooij, Director of Product Development, where they share how they partner their expertise together and all the magic that goes into making the perfect beverage prototype. They explore how their different points of view help them develop and flavor products that might not taste good on their own.
2022-10-2639 min
TrendiBrazil, Spice, and Our Job Openings That are not Looking so NiceBrazil Election 4th largest democracy. 12th largest largest economy in the world and biggest in LATAM. The election is between the Trump of the tropics Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Final election is Oct. 30th. Country profile: 213M population. $1.6T economy. Economically similar in size to Russia or Australia. Shrinking economy since 2014 when it was roughly. $2.4T. Brazil has a 13.75% interest rate and 7.17% inflation. Brazil has an 8.9% unemployment rate, but trending down from the 12.6% high this time last year. TAKEOUT: Bolsonaro up. History does not repeat, but it does rhyme and this looks like a similar...
2022-10-2507 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 20: Formulating with a ScientistIn this episode, we speak with Rob Bowen, Scientist II, at McCormick and explore the different applications used while baking and formulating in research and development. Tune in to hear what candy school entails, how to experiment and work through challenges, and how to play with your food!
2022-09-2731 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 19: Taste ModificationIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Lindsey Szymczak, Senior Scientist, and Jason Mittelheuser, Solutions Manager, where they discuss what taste modification is and what goes into making products palatable. They explore the complexity of their work, how they reduce negative attributes, and how they enhance products' positive attributes like sweet, salty, and umami.
2022-08-2431 min
Steeping TogetherS2E19 - What Exactly is Flavouring? w/ Dr. Robert Sobel of McCormick FONAWe invited Research & Innovation expert, Dr. Robert Sobel, to help us unpack what natural and artificial flavouring really means.Today's episode is brought to you by
2022-07-2955 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 18: Reaction FlavorsIn this episode, we speak with Lisa Bird, Senior Principal Scientist at McCormick and explore reaction and process flavors. We discuss the Maillard reaction, also known as non-enzymatic browning, and uncover all the different products that come from this reaction. Tune in to hear how amino acids, fats, proteins, sugars and more are all important factors when working with reaction flavors!
2022-07-2735 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 17: Working with ProteinsIn this episode, we speak with Kaylind Cook, Senior Application Technologist, and Sandra Scaliatine, Scientist, and they explore flavoring different protein applications, why some proteins are more popular, and overcoming challenges that proteins present. They discuss why consumers seek out protein products and ultimately why taste is the number one factor when choosing their protein products. Tune in to hear about some unique proteins like duckweed or air protein!
2022-06-2929 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 16: MarinadesIn this episode, we speak with Ron Taylor, Principle Research Chef at McCormick and explore marinades, their multitude of applications, and different ways marinades can spice up your favorite meats and veggies. They discuss how adventurous you can be when marinating and what common refrigerator staples make up the best marinade ingredients. Dip in and let this episode inspire your next summer dish!
2022-05-2632 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 15: Flavor Forecast 22nd EditionIn this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Consumer Insights Manager, and Veronica Collins, Senior Global Content & Communications Manager, where they dive into the future of flavor. From using time as an ingredient to investigating the movement away from overly sweet applications, tune in as the latest themes and flavors of this year’s Flavor Forecast report are unveiled.
2022-04-2835 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 14: Polarizing FlavorsIn this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Consumer Insights Manager, and Katie Buss, Director of Sensory, and they explore polarizing flavors, why some popular flavors are polarizing, and why polarizing isn't necessarily a bad thing. They discuss what influences consumers' perceptions of flavors and how emotions, genetics, and culture play a role in these expectations. Tune in to see if your favorite polarizing flavor makes their list!
2022-03-2328 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 13: The Flavor Experience: The Consumer PerspectiveIn this episode, we speak with Tom Cavers, Director of Consumer Market Insights at McCormick and explore how flavor is multi-sensorial, emotional, and an experience. Learn how flavor is perceived from a consumer perspective, the different factors that affect flavor perception, and how the possibilities are limitless when working with flavor.
2022-02-2836 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 12: Organic from a Regulatory PerspectiveIn this episode, we speak with Jennifer Von Schnase, Regulatory Analyst, and Amie Talbert, Regulatory Specialist, where they dive into all things regulatory surrounding the organic landscape. They share insight on what makes flavors and foods organic, the differing regulations across countries, and comparisons to natural & non-GMO. Stick around to hear some unusual regulatory facts and so much more!
2021-12-2228 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 11: Beverage LandscapeIn this episode, we speak with Julie Olson, Beverage Industry Manager, and Trina Murray, Senior Scientist, where they dive into the beverage landscape and share trends that will inspire your own innovation. They discuss sparkling water, ready-to-drink teas and coffees to all things alcohol as well as how to pair inviting, familiar flavors with bold, intriguing flavors through Approachable Adventure. Stick around for a live tasting -- and by the end, we hope to jumpstart your imagination and creativity when you begin crafting your next product.
2021-11-2940 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 10: Weird Flavor Science: Spooky EditionIn this episode, we speak with Paul Hoffman, Scientist at FONA and explore his culinary experiences and topics related to weird flavor science. Paul discusses a day in the life as a scientist, strange flavor combinations, and the fun and unusual applications that he works with daily. Stay tuned for discussion around cricket protein, hot dog flavored cupcakes, and the use of anchovies. Warning: in honor of spooky season, this episode does get weird. Includes discussion of frost-bitten toes, ghosts and cannibalism. Listen if you dare.
2021-10-2731 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 9: The Role of SensoryIn this episode, Katie Buss, Director of Sensory, and Ashley Rakow, Senior Sensory Scientist, dive into the science of sensory and its role in the world of product development. Learn about the different types of sensory testing, how to use descriptive terms, and how sensory is a critical tool in the product development process.
2021-09-2733 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 8: Mood TrendsIn this episode, we speak with Senior Application Technologists, Heather Farnum and Kaylind Cook, where they discuss how flavors can affect consumers' moods. Tune in and learn how specific flavors can put you in a good mood, a relaxed state of mind, or simply take you back and remind you of happy memories.
2021-08-2033 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 7: Clean LabelIn this episode, we speak with Pamela Oscarson, Consumer Insights Manager, and Jennifer Howell, Director of Regulatory Innovation, and they discuss clean label in the food and beverage industry today. Since there is no legal definition for “clean,” we explore the consumer’s expectations and the regulatory landscape in the gray space that is clean label.
2021-07-2139 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 6: Artificial IntelligenceIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Robert Sobel, Vice President of Research of Innovation at FONA and explore the advent of artificial intelligence and it’s industrial uses in the flavor Industry. We discuss different ways this technology plays a role in our everyday life and how it can benefit the food & beverage industry into the future.
2021-06-2940 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 5: Flavorists: A Look Behind the BottleIn this episode, we speak with Flavorists, Rebecca Genovise and Jessica Lopez, where they take you behind the scenes in becoming a flavorist, a day in the life, and how to work smarter with flavor. Learn how to build a flavor and see why some unusual raw materials are important when building a robust flavor - stick around to hear what flavor they built!
2021-05-2541 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 4: All Things InnovationIn this episode, Molly Zimmerman, Innovation Manager, and Gena Tiesch, Industry Manager, share all about innovation, from defining the different kinds of innovation to bringing the magic of flavor innovation to your product development. Learn how new product innovations can succeed, why some fail -- and stick around to hear about what they call the “Salted Caramel Blueberry Paradox.”
2021-04-2641 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 3: Regulatory LandscapeIn this episode, we interview Jennifer Howell, Director of Regulatory Innovation, and discuss flavor from a regulatory standpoint in the food and beverage industry. We discuss simple ways of decoding flavors for consumers, labeling, allergens, natural, and so much more.
2021-03-3025 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 2: Flavor Radar®In this episode, we interview Pamela Oscarson, Consumer Insights Manager, and explore Flavor Radar®, FONA’s flagship flavor mapping methodology.
2021-02-1722 minFlavor University PodcastFlavor University Ep. 1: What is Flavor?In this episode, we interview Dr. Robert Sobel, Vice President of Research of Innovation at FONA and discuss what is flavor, why we use flavor, and it's history.
2021-01-2048 min