Product Shelf Life consultancy- ARYAF- Ishtar Kamooneh

Context & Background

Berytech is a leading organization in the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Lebanon that aims to provide a conducive environment for the creation and development of startups, through incubation, business support, counseling, funding, networking, and the company hosting, hence taking part in the economic revival of the country, participating in wealth and job creation, and retaining graduates and high-level skills in Lebanon.  

About ARYAF PROJECT

ARYAF serves Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises operating in food processing, local hospitality, tourism, the restaurant industry, eco-tourism, and agri-tourism within west Bekaa, Zahle, and South Mount Lebanon.  

The program aims to empower sixty MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) to increase their sales volume, implement a business continuity plan, and provide training to their staff, including youth, women, and disabled individuals.

The program is funded by The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für International Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), in partnership with Berytech, within the framework of Strengthening Agriculture, Local Communities and Small and Medium Enterprises project (ACE). 

Scope of Work

Extend Product Shelf-Life Consultancy,

The consultant will collaborate with an artisanal Mooneh production business to extend the shelf life of the Mooneh products. The Consultant will conduct thorough analyses, implement innovative techniques, and advise the production team to enhance the quality and longevity of jam products.

The consultant is expected to fulfill the below key responsibilities:

1. Product Analysis

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current production process, ingredients, and packaging methods to identify factors affecting the shelf life.
• Analyze the microbiological, chemical, and physical attributes to identify potential areas for improvement.

2. Research and Development:

• Stay up to date with the latest trends and advancements in food preservation, formulation, and packaging technologies.
• Research and recommend suitable additives and natural ingredients that can extend shelf life while maintaining product quality and safety.

• Recommend adjustments to cooking, blending, and filling processes to minimize contamination risks and enhance product integrity.

3. Packaging Enhancements:

• Evaluate the current packaging materials for their effectiveness in preserving product freshness and preventing spoilage.
• Explore innovative packaging solutions, such as barrier coatings or modified atmosphere packaging, to extend the shelf life.

4. Training and Collaboration:

• Train relevant staff in new techniques, processes, and quality control measures to ensure successful implementation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, R&D, and quality assurance, to align efforts and achieve desired outcomes.

5. Documentation and reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of findings and recommendations.
• Prepare a final outline of the implementation progress and the intervention results.

Any additional service is to be mentioned in the technical proposal.

Deliverables

1. Shelf-Life Assessment Report
2. Shelf-Life Extension Strategies
3. Evaluation Report with recommendations for enhancement.
4. Training Material and report
5. Shel-Life protocols and Documentation

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in food science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Quality Assurance, or a related field. Ph.D. is a plus.
• At least 7 years of experience in food product development, focusing on extending the shelf life of perishable products.
• Proven experience in food preservation techniques, food chemistry, and microbiology.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and guidelines related to food safety and preservation.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with various teams.