Crystal Moos
Robertson
Summary
Dynamic Research and Development Technologist at Montagu Foods with a proven track record in product innovation and quality assurance. Expert in regulatory compliance and flavor development, I excel in cross-functional teamwork and problem-solving, driving successful product launches that align with consumer trends and brand goals.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research and Development Technologist
Montagu Foods
06.2024 - Current
- Develop and test new product formulations to enhance quality and flavor profiles.
- Develop new product formulations from concept to pilot testing and full scale production to ensure that this aligns with market trends, customer needs and brand goals.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, product efficiency and formulary trouble shooting
- Conduct sensory evaluations to assess product attributes and consumer preferences.
- Maintain comprehensive documentation of development processes and ingredient specifications.
- Compile and submit religious applications.
- Ensure legal compliance of products for regulatory, labeling and food safety compliance.
- Analyze nutritional information and creation of nutritional tables.
- Sourcing of new raw materials and packaging.
- Maintain awareness of global trends.
- Conduct regular code reviews to ensure adherence to coding standards and best practices, promoting a culture of high-quality work among team members.
- Mentor junior developers by providing guidance on complex technical issues, fostering their professional growth and skill development.
Junior Laboratory Analyst
Lactalis Cheese ( Parmalat)
03.2008 - 05.2014
- Conducted routine maintenance on laboratory equipment, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing downtime.
- Contributed to the development of standard operating procedures, enhancing reproducibility and consistency across experiments.
- Ensured proper handling of hazardous materials according to established guidelines for safe disposal or storage.
- Analyzed chemical compositions of dairy products using advanced laboratory equipment.
- Conducted quality control tests to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
- Developed and implemented standard operating procedures for laboratory testing processes.
- Trained junior analysts on laboratory protocols and data interpretation techniques.
- Prepared samples and assisted laboratory personnel in performing qualitative and quantitative analysis using analytical instruments, techniques and methods.
- Maintained detailed records of all laboratory activities within a centralized database, promoting transparency and collaboration among team members.
- Provided technical support to colleagues as needed, sharing expert knowledge in analytical methods and best practices.
- Operated and troubleshot equipment, instruments and associated software and routinely performed quality control on instrumentation to comply with established specifications.
- Adhered to strict deadlines while maintaining high-quality output under pressure, ensuring timely delivery of results to clients.
- Participated in regular audits to maintain compliance with regulatory standards and ensure laboratory safety protocols were upheld.
- Implemented process improvements based on feedback from team members or clients to enhance service offerings continually.
- Cleaned and removed biohazard waste and inventory within laboratory to comply with health and safety regulations.
- Prepared reagents, media and solutions to use for laboratory testing and analysis.
- Participated in lab meetings and project presentations.
Education
Diploma of Food Technology - Food Technology
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
CPUT12-2007
Skills
- Product development expertise
- Innovation and creativity
- Quality assurance
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Regulatory compliance
- Food cost optimization
- Flavor development
- Microbiology fundamentals
- Allergen control procedures
- Food processing technologies
- Consumer trend awareness
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Packaging and labeling
Accomplishments
SA Preserves Championships 2025 : Agri Expo
- Classic Chutney : 2nd and 3rd place
- Fruit Chutney: Product of the Year Award
- Relishes :2nd place
Food & Home Awards 2025: Product of the Year
- 2 x Gold Award for Cook in Sauces
Certification
- SA Food Labeling & Regulations,Facts
- WW Food Safety & Quality Course, IBL
- Food Safety Auditing, Based on ISO 19011:2011, Annelie Coetzee Consulting
- Retort Training, Firi Consulting
Timeline
Research and Development Technologist
Montagu Foods
06.2024 - Current
Junior Laboratory Analyst
Lactalis Cheese ( Parmalat)
03.2008 - 05.2014
Diploma of Food Technology - Food Technology
Cape Peninsula University of Technology