Custom flavor development follows a structured path from creative brief through iterations to production release. Knowing the process helps buyers brief efficiently and hit launch windows.
Key Highlights
- Structured brief cuts 2-3 iteration rounds from typical projects
- matai timeline: 4-8 weeks brief to pilot sample
- Pilot batch validates scale-up before production commitment
Stage-by-Stage Process
| Stage | Duration | Output |
| Brief & feasibility | Week 0-1 | Target profile, matrix, dosage, cost envelope |
| Laboratory iterations | Week 1-4 | Bench samples for customer evaluation |
| Sample approval | Week 4-6 | Locked formula + specification |
| Pilot batch | Week 6-7 | Scale-up validation sample |
| Production release | Week 7-8 | First production lot with full QC |
Writing an Effective Brief
- Target product and market (regulatory destination)
- Reference flavor or competitive benchmark if available
- Finished-product dosage range and matrix composition
- Cost ceiling per kg of concentrate
- Timeline and launch window
matai’s 249-formula library frequently enables matching from existing profiles – cutting the process to sample-approval only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does custom development take?
matai typically delivers pilot samples in 4-8 weeks from approved brief; library matches can compress this to 2-3 weeks.
What should a flavor brief include?
Target application, reference profile, dosage range, cost ceiling, regulatory destination and timeline.
Next step: Start a custom project via contact the R&D team.