Working Day - Chef Experience 5

The world of product development is a myriad of ever changing projects and briefs, with knowledge and experience being the foundation that will generate and spark the ideas that meet the needs of this ever challenging industry. What is the next big thing, where are the gaps in the market? These are the challenges that test knowledge, experience and drive.

The culinary and management skills one develops in the hospitality industry are invaluable to us; however, learning new skills are essential when undertaking the role of an NPD chef. Understanding manufacturing, commercial and technical aspects, as well as market research, become a fundamental part of the learning curve in order to meet the expectations of the internal team, external customer (retailer) and the end consumer.

Getting out and about to see producers and growers, visiting markets and restaurants, are regular occurrences and valuable learning experiences. Understanding the origins of products, how it is produced and its availability is an important part in developing your knowledge and appreciation for the products that you will be using. Having worked in Switzerland for fourteen years and being a qualified chef lecturer, I had always believed and taught about provenance, the quality of ingredients and the importance of correct methods of preparation and cookery.... I was pleasantly surprised to find that in New Product Development these ideals are actually well established.

It is these points of difference that retailers want to know about. What is the story surrounding this product, where does it come from, who has grown it, is it a new variety, does it look different, does it taste better, how has it been cooked?.... It's about generating enthusiasm around produce and then demonstrating how best to develop it.

It's as diverse as standing in a field one day learning about the development of new baby leaf salad types, and the next day sitting in a restaurant seeing for yourself how the same produce is being used as a current trend. There is always something new to see and learn about.