SOWDAMBIKA S

Lab-Scale Protein Development:

• Raw Material Sourcing:
• Engaged with FPOs, traders, and retailers to procure raw materials.
• Conducted property testing and analysis of raw materials.
• Finalized the most suitable supplier.
• Process Optimization:
• Mapped the entire production process for yellow pea protein isolate, from flour grinding to protein extraction and spray drying.
• Optimized process parameters through literature review and experimental trials.

Industrial-Scale Production:

• Raw Material Procurement & Processing:
• Managed raw material purchasing and grinding.
• Facilitated transportation by generating E-way bills and E-challans.
• Production Management & Troubleshooting:
• Independently supervised protein isolate production in an industrial setup, strengthening leadership skills.
• Addressed fermentation issues caused by process delays and high ambient temperatures by evaluating various preservatives and selecting the most effective one.
• Resolved contamination problems in the process line by implementing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Replaced low-yield machinery with a more efficient alternative by liaising with manufacturers, conducting trials, and researching suitable options.

Product Testing & Quality Assurance:

• Obtained a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the final product.
• Conducted analytical tests, including moisture content, fiber content, and protein composition.
• Evaluated functional properties such as solubility, water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity, emulsification activity and stability, least gelation concentration, and foaming ability and stability.
• Performed benchmarking through comparative analysis with competitor products.

By-Product Management:

• Developed a comprehensive process flowchart using secondary research (patents, research journals) and primary studies (interactions with local and national manufacturers).
• Identified and procured suitable equipment from various manufacturers.
• Conducted trials to enhance by-product purity and performed quality testing.
• The product's starch content was analyzed.

Market Research & Competitive Analysis:

• Identified cost-effective raw materials with high protein content by comparing prices across different states.
• Collected competitor pricing data for strategic market positioning.
• Researched protein-rich millets and their value-added applications.

New Product Development:

• Extracted protein from millets and oil seeds like sesame.
• Conducted multiple trials and troubleshooting to address processing challenges.
• Tackled stickiness issues through process optimization and equipment modifications, ensuring improved product quality.