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:
Phospholipids may be small molecules, but their impact is immense. By keeping them active and abundant in infant formula, we're taking one step closer to replicating the remarkable composition of human milk—and nurturing healthy development in every bottle. Click the link to learn how.
When you're dealing with a complex matrix, the real question isn’t “Can it be tested?”—it's “What are you hoping to uncover?” Many things can be tested, but the answers depend on asking the right questions. Learn more about testing complex botanical matrices by clicking the link.
Creating shelf-stable nutritional bars and other natural food products is about understanding the science behind food preservation, taste and appearance. One of the most critical factors in the formulation of long-lasting, safe and appealing products is water activity. Water activity plays a major role in maintaining texture, reducing the rate of fats oxidation preventing spoilage and ensuring safety from microbial growth. Keep reading to learn what is being done to create a longer shelf life.
The use of real HMOs in infant formula is accelerating, driven by science, innovation, and a commitment to nourishing infants in the healthiest way possible. Enhanced testing methods are unlocking new capabilities—bringing us closer than ever to replicating the complexity and power of human milk. Click the link to learn more about HMOs.
In today’s competitive marketplace, success hinges on more than just product formulation. You must create a product experience that consistently delights consumers. Continue reading to learn how Eurofins Nutrition Analysis Center can help you understand how your product is perceived in the real world.
As the global appetite for high-protein and plant-based protein products continues to grow, food developers face a critical challenge: choosing the right protein ingredients that meet nutritional needs and perform well in real-world applications. Protein functionality testing is the backbone of successful innovation in this evolving space. Read more about protein testing by clicking the link.
Chlorates and perchlorates are chlorine-based oxyanions that have emerged as contaminants of concern in the food and dietary supplement industries. These compounds are highly soluble in water and persistent in the environment, making them difficult to eliminate once introduced into the supply chain. Continue reading to learn what you can do to test for these contaminants.
Learn how to navigate global GMO export testing requirements with confidence. Discover how Eurofins GeneScan supports compliance with country-specific GMO regulations through expert screening, quantification, and certification.
Ensure compliance and product safety with Eurofins' USP Microbiology Services. Learn how USP Testing and Suitability Testing help validate methods for dietary supplements, probiotics, and botanicals while avoiding false negatives and regulatory pitfalls.
Learn how to prevent, manage, and respond to a USDA NR (noncompliance record) in USDA-regulated facilities. This guide offers practical tips for minimizing USDA noncompliance records through strong food safety systems, communication, and expert support.
