Insight
A practical walkthrough of the custom flavour development cycle at Delsa: brief intake, benchmark analysis, R&D iterations, in-matrix testing, regulatory check, scale-up and Canadian supply.
We start with a detailed brief: target profile description, end-product matrix and processing, regulatory and declaration goals, sweetness/sweetener system, target dosage, lead time and forecast volumes. If a competitor benchmark exists, we sample it in the same matrix you'll be using.
Delsa's Spanish R&D team builds two to four prototype submissions, evaluated internally and then with the client in the actual finished product. Two to three iteration rounds are typical before a profile is locked.
Once locked, the flavour scales to commercial batch. Delsa Flavours Canada manages first delivery, regulatory documentation, customs clearance and ongoing supply from our Canadian operation.
A useful brief includes: target sensory description (with reference product if possible), application and matrix (pH, fat, sugar, processing), dosage window, regulatory positioning (natural / NI / WONF), allergen restrictions, target cost per kg of finished product, project timeline, and shipping address for samples. The more complete the brief, the more aligned the first iteration — typically 90 % of misses come from missing brief data, not flavour skill.
We provide a structured brief template on request to make sure nothing is left out.
Once the bench iteration is locked, we move to pilot-scale validation (5–25 kg), then production batch (50–500 kg). At scale-up we revalidate sensory in-matrix, run accelerated stability, and finalize the Canadian regulatory dossier — labelling guidance, allergen statement, CoA template, kosher/halal/organic certificates, freight Incoterms. Launch handover includes a dosing reference card and a stability schedule.
Most projects move from first brief to production batch in 8–14 weeks depending on iteration count and stability requirements.
8–14 weeks from brief to first commercial batch, depending on complexity and iteration rounds.
Most projects finalize within 2–3 revision rounds. We deliver the first iteration in 2–3 weeks and tighten from there based on your tasting notes.
Yes — every development project starts under mutual NDA. Your recipe, brief and benchmark references stay confidential.
Standard production MOQ is 5 kg, with tier pricing at 25 kg, 100 kg and 500 kg+. Sample-stage quantities (50–250 g) are free.
Tell us about your project — profile, matrix, target dosage and timeline. We'll get a sample submission or technical proposal back to you within a few business days.
