Puja Mankar

Valcore Foods Pvt Ltd

• Led fermentation studies on chilli mash, optimizing LAB dominance under varying methodologies, salt concentrations, particle sizes, and anaerobic conditions
• Designed preservative efficacy trials (benzoate, sorbate, metabisulphite, ascorbic acid, tocopherols, EDTA, blanching) to evaluate microbial stability, color retention, and shelf life
• Standardized analytical assays and developed troubleshooting protocols for fermentation failures (kahm yeast, texture loss, off-flavors)
• Developed fermented hot sauce with focus on stability, sensory profile, texture, packaging, and physicochemical characteristics aligned with FSSAI guidelines
• Investigated pigment degradation in green and red peppers linked to processing parameters and metal ion content

Anuvi Food Sciences Pvt Ltd

• Scaled in-house production of fermentation-based food additives (6x and 10x) by optimizing experimental design
• Reviewed and updated patents to protect product design and intellectual property (IP)
• Served as primary contact for regulatory compliance and license acquisition, including FSSAI and HALAL certifications
• Designed POC to evaluate efficacy of bitter blocker (taste modulator) in enhancing palatability of stevia; expanded design for chocolate, coffee, and tea applications
• Developed commercially scalable production methodology ensuring viability and large-scale implementation
• Designed and analyzed sensory evaluation experiments for cell-derived additives

Mylab Discovery Solutions

• Ran hundreds of RT-PCR tests daily during COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to critical diagnostic efforts
• Collaborated with BD Max to optimize in-house RT-PCR kits for end-to-end automation
• Automated RT-PCR kits on in-house machines, including Compact XL, Compact Dx, and Compact Q
• Worked on development and optimization of in-house RT-PCR kit for HHH detection
• Part of validation team for RT-PCR kits, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance