Seasoning Spotlight: A Q&A with Seasoning Technologist, Thea
People
6th March 2026
This week, for International Women’s Day, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our talented Junior Seasoning Flavourists, Thea!
From developing recipes at the bench to taste-testing finished products, Thea’s days are a mix of creativity and science. Her approach to building flavours starts with understanding the taste and texture of the dish she’s recreating, layering in natural flavours, herbs and spices to bring it to life.
Inspired by global cuisines, restaurant menus and food trends, Thea turns ideas into products you can find on supermarket shelves.
What does a typical day look like for you as a seasoning technologist?
"Each day is different depending on the projects we have on, but it usually starts with a coffee and brief catch up with the team to make sure we’re all aligned. The rest of the day is a mixture of writing recipes on the computer and making up seasoning samples on the bench."
How do you approach creating a new seasoning from scratch?
” As a starting point, I always think about the tastes and textures you’d experience eating the food or dish that I’m trying to recreate e.g. sweet, sour, creamy etc. Most seasonings start with a similar base but then the complexity of flavour can be added by using a range of natural flavours, herbs, spices and functional ingredients. ”
Where do you find inspiration for new products?
"A lot of inspiration comes from trying new dishes and looking at menus at restaurants, cafes or food markets. Social media is also a great tool for finding interesting ingredients or dishes from around the world, that can spark ideas for new seasonings."
What tools or instruments are essential for your daily work?
” A set of scales and bowls for weighing out ingredients, pipettes for adding in liquid flavours and a pestle to combine all the ingredients together. We also sieve each seasoning to make sure the texture is uniform. We have various types of bases in the lab e.g. crisps , tortillas and popcorn, so we can replicate the finished product and do a taste test! ”
Do you have a signature flavour or one you’re especially proud of?
” The first product launch I was involved in, was a BBQ flavour. It took a lot of work to get the seasoning right so it was a proud moment to see it on the supermarket shelves. ”
We’re proud to celebrate Thea and all the women who are shaping the future of food through science, innovation and passion!
