Wixon, a manufacturer of seasonings, flavors and technologies for the food and beverage industry, has announced Leda Strand as Vice President of Research & Development.

In her new role, Strand will coordinate the efforts of Wixon’s Research & Development department to provide superior products and support for the organization’s customers. She will direct product and food technology creation through Wixon’s staff of food technologists, flavor chemists, meat scientists, and research professionals. She will also oversee sensory analysis and Wixon’s foodservice/culinary team.

Strand has more than twenty years of experience in product development and quality management across the food industry. She formerly served as Wixon’s Director of Technology Applications and Industrial Ingredients and most recently as Product Development Manager for Chr. Hansen in Milwaukee.

“Leda’s expertise will drive product development initiatives for our customers, delivering the latest in on-trend food and beverages for industrial, consumer product, protein, and foodservice markets,” says Peter Gottsacker, president of Wixon. “Her breadth of work, including flavor modifier applications, sensory programs, contract manufacturing, and quality assurance, mirrors Wixon’s dedication to excelling as a full-service provider of seasoning and flavor system solutions.”

Strand earned a master of business administration degree from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and a bachelor of science degree in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin. She is a member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and resides in Glendale.

For more than 100 years, Wixon has been a trusted provider of flavors, seasonings, and technologies for food and beverage manufacturers. With its scientific and culinary capabilities combined with a passion for service, Wixon drives innovation and solutions for its customers. Wixon focuses on its core areas of expertise: Industrial Ingredients, including Foodservice; Consumer Products; and Protein. Customers are encouraged to tap into a portfolio of services, including R&D, custom formulation development, turnkey solutions, and menu ideation. Wixon ingredients are globally-sourced and go beyond FDA standards to ensure quality and cleanliness. The company also offers spice grinding, blending, and a complete line of package engineering options. Located in St. Francis, Wis., a suburb of Milwaukee, Wixon is GFSI Certified to FSSC 22000, ISO9001 Certified, and QAI Organic Certified. More information on Wixon or any of its products may be obtained at www.wixon.com or by calling (414) 769-3000.