J. David Legan, PhD
Director of Science
David earned his Ph.D. in Food Technology from the University of Reading in the UK by modeling the ecology of mixed microbial populations, and then moved to Campden BRI in a variety of microbiological food safety research and client service roles. During that time, he was project lead for the Bacillus component of the UK’s pathogen modeling program. He moved again to Nabisco Research in New Jersey where he ran the corporate microbiology lab and developed a program of preservation technology development and microbial modeling. After the Kraft Foods acquisition, he moved to Chicago to work on Food Safety and Preservation research, and through modeling and validation studies:
- Optimized Oscar Mayer’s use of lactate and diacetate and their naturally cultured alternatives as Listeria-control agents in Ready to Eat meats
- Specified process conditions central to Oscar Mayer’s commercial launch of High Pressure Pasteurization of naturally cured RTE meats
David had responsibility for the Kraft cultures R&D group, developed a partnership to explore microwave sterilization leading to several patents, and led a program that developed an internal proprietary natural antimicrobial commercialized in several Kraft products. Technologies from his group supported approximately $4 billion in annual sales.
After years as a microbiology "client", he is now back in the "provider" role as Director of Science at Eurofins Microbiology Laboratories, Inc., by way of the Covance Food Solutions group based in Madison, WI, which he joined in 2016. In this role, he ensures appropriate method validation, explores new testing technologies, and fields multiple complicated food microbiology questions.
Products that his team has evaluated or developed and launched include:
- The 3M MDS platform in the Madison microbiology laboratory
- Flow cytometry for enumeration of probiotics
- Strain-level confirmation of probiotic identification using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Next-generation sequencing using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies GridION sequencing platform for microbial identification and microbiome analysis
Below are resources from David:
Discover how the Eurofins Botanicals and LeafWorks partnership are advancing transparency in the booming functional mushroom market with species-specific DNA ID testing. Ensure product authenticity, support label claims, and meet regulatory standards with cutting-edge qPCR assays and comprehensive analytical solutions.
In the world of dietary supplements, where natural ingredients are marketed for health and wellness, the quality and identity of botanicals are non-negotiable. Consumers rely on accurate labeling, consistent formulation, and, most importantly, safe and authentic ingredients. Continue reading to learn more about ensuring safety in botanical supplement products.
In an industry rooted in nature but constantly evolving with science, botanical supplements are experiencing a quiet revolution. Innovation isn't just about discovering exotic new plants—it's about precision, purpose, and progress at every step of product development. Check out our infographic on your botanical product's steps, from seed to shelf.
Certain seasonal botanicals may play a vital role in supporting women's health and overall wellness. Shatavari, dong quai, and milky oats are known for their deeply nurturing qualities, fostering balance, resilience, and gentle strength within the body. Click the link to continue exploring the benefits of these plants and their contributions to health and well-being.
In the world of dietary supplements and botanical materials, accurate identity testing is essential for product safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer confidence. One of the most effective tools in this area is Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), particularly in its high-performance form (HPTLC). Continue reading to find an overview of HPTLC, compendial HPTLC methods, selecting a fit-for-purpose method, the acceptance criteria, and the advantages and limitations of compendial methods.
An entrepreneurial brand wanted to develop a shelf-stable liquid formula that could deliver proven joint-supporting ingredients in a convenient, consumer-friendly format. They turned to The National Food Lab for help to bring their concept from ideation to execution with scientific rigor and market-readiness. Keep reading to find out how we handle these situations.
Botanical innovation is reshaping how companies approach sourcing, formulation, and delivery. Learn how forward-thinking brands are aligning strategy, ensuring scalability, and meeting rising consumer and regulatory demands.
June 24th, 2025– In response to evolving regulatory expectations and growing public health concerns for Bisphenol A (BPA), Eurofins Food Chemistry Testing Madison, Inc. (EFCT) has expanded its advanced testing capabilities to detect and quantify BPA. Read our press release to learn more.
HPTLC is more than just a laboratory technique; it’s a cornerstone of quality assurance in botanical testing. This article delves into the information that should accompany your sample, explaining its scientific significance and role in meeting regulatory standards, in order to ensure accurate analysis.
Discover the crucial role of botanical reference materials (BRMs) in supplement quality and regulatory compliance. Learn how BRMs help ensure product integrity and support industry standards.
