Hire the Best Product Developers
in South Africa

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Jonno K.

Cape Town, South Africa

$70/hr
5.0
14 jobs

I am a certified food scientist and sports nutritionist (NTEC and QLS UK) who helps food or beverage or supplements ideas to become successful commercial products for the consumer market. I have helped foodbev startups of all sizes with development services & turnkey solutions. Additionally I have worked with Mondelez, Nestle, Unilever, Danone, Lactalis, Coca Cola, Pepsico, AB Inbev on ingredient challenges and product solutions. My knowledge comes from my M Sc Food Science and 25+ years in the food and beverage industry. My approach to consulting is collaborative and tailored to each client's unique needs. I always love a challenge and working closely with business leaders to understand their challenges, opportunities, and goals, and then develop customized solutions that deliver results. Let the clients' testimonials speak first: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.00 "Jonno's deep understanding of the relationship between ingredients, proper nutrition and overall health has been instrumental in the success of my products. Jonno's exceptional skills in product development and food creation shine through in every interaction. His expertise as a formulation expert has brought a level of professionalism and insight that is hard to find." ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.00 "I highly recommend Jonno to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, experienced, and dedicated nutritionist and formulation expert. As a startup in the health and wellness industry, I was struggling with troubleshooting and finding the right ingredients for my products. Jonno's expertise and solutions were invaluable in helping me overcome these challenges." ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.00 "His in-depth knowledge of ingredients and their functionalities allowed us to create unique and high-quality products that stood out in the market. Jonno's problem-solving skills were also exceptional, and he was able to come up with innovative solutions to any roadblocks we encountered. Thanks to Jonno's guidance and support, our startup company has seen tremendous success, and we couldn't have done it without him. I highly recommend Jonno to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and experienced food and beverage product developer specialist." My knowledge of dietary supplements comes from over 20 years in the sports nutrition industry as: business owner for 3 years; trader of proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates and supplier to leading global brands like USN, Biogen, Optimum Nutrition. I have more commercial experience and product knowledge of building a succesful dietary supplement brand than anyone else. Honest! ▶ Master Science degree in food science/engineering & 5 years in manufacturing environment. ▶ Successful consulting business since 2016 with over 120 clients. ▶ 3 years business owner of dietary supplement & sports nutrition products so I have earned my stripes in the trenches. ▶ Over 180 successful projects in new product development (health supplements & wellness products, beverages, protein & sports bars, cannabis edibles, pet nutrition, bakery, snacks, dairy, alcoholic beverages, sauces, dietary mixes, meat, dairy alternatives, meat alternatives) ▶ Trained auditor & 7 years in food safety management systems (HACCP, GMP, FSSC22000, GFSI, BRC, GlobalGAP) ▶ 6 years market research, data analysis, supply-demand, and trade research ▶ Experience accross global countries (USA, UK, South Africa, Sweden, Australia, Canada, Kenya, Zambia) Collaboration and partnership for you means the following: Create and innovate new custom formulation that sets your products apart. Optimize and perfect winning solutions for production challenges like shelflife and quality obstacles. Thrive and learn more about ingredients, regulations and dietary trends shaping the food industry. Connect and network with reliable ingredient suppliers and trustworthy third party contract manufacturers and copacking. Focused and agile to navigate complex challenges such as supply chain disruptions, changing consumer preferences, and regulatory changes. *DIETARY SUPPLEMENT CONSULTANT* 🟦 Commercialize health into retail products. 🟦 Natural ingredients & nutraceuticals 🟦 Adding value to superfoods 🟦 Ensure correct labelling 🟦 Optimized shelf life & quality *FULL PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT* 🟩 Concept ideation to prototyping 🟩 Product innovation with R&D (research and development) 🟩 Feasibility & labelling claims 🟩 Process development, testing & validation 🟩 Copacking & Contract Manufacturing *PROJECT RESEARCH CONSULTANT* 🟧 Investment projects (Techno-Economic Analysis & IRR) 🟧 Value Chain Analysis (VCA) 🟧 Data analysis with ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) 🟧 Market trade research 🟧 Supply Chain research (demand-supply) 🟧 Food & Beverage Ingredients & chemicals research *QUALITY ASSURANCE (QA) & SYSTEMS* 🟪 Food safety management system (FSMS) 🟪 Digital Compliance software 🟪 Transition from basic GMP/HACCP to GFSI accreditation (FSSC22000, BRC, GlobalGAP, SQF)

  • Product Development
  • Chemistry
  • Label Compliance
  • Product Formulation
  • Research & Development
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Nutrition
  • Food & Supplements
  • Food Science
  • Sports & Recreation
  • Procurement
  • Food & Beverage
  • Recipe Development
  • Food Engineering
  • Food Packaging
Sihle B.

Cape Town, South Africa

$120/hr
5.0
33 jobs

Dietary supplement companies often reach manufacturing with a completed Product Formulation, finished packaging artwork, supplier documentation, and commercial timelines already in place. At that stage, issues within the Product Formulation, Label Compliance, Technical Documentation, Product Stability, or Regulatory Compliance can delay manufacturing, require label revisions, create retailer questions, interrupt Amazon listings, or increase development costs. A structured technical review before production helps identify these issues while changes remain practical. I work with dietary supplement brands, private label manufacturers, startups, and Food & Beverage companies that require an independent scientific review before products move into manufacturing, retail, Amazon, investor due diligence, or regulatory submission. My reviews combine Product Formulation, Product Development, Label Compliance, Technical Documentation, Product Stability, Nutrition, Food Science, and Regulatory Compliance into one assessment so technical decisions are supported before commercial decisions are made. I'm an MSc Food Scientist, active PhD researcher, and Product Development consultant with experience across Food & Supplements, Research & Development, Food Science, Chemistry, Food Engineering, Scientific Research, and Regulatory Compliance. My work includes dietary supplements, functional foods, nutraceuticals, and Food & Beverage products intended for the United States and European markets. Every review considers the complete Product Formulation together with ingredient specifications, Label Compliance, Product Stability, Technical Documentation, Nutrition, manufacturing feasibility, Scientific Research, and applicable Regulatory Compliance requirements. Clients use these reviews to identify formulation risks, documentation gaps, unsupported claims, ingredient concerns, dosage inconsistencies, Product Stability observations, and compliance issues before manufacturing decisions are finalized. Services include: - Product Formulation & Product Development - Product Formulation review and scientific assessment - Product Development for Food & Supplements, nutraceuticals, functional foods, and Food & - Beverage products - Recipe Development, reformulation, ingredient optimization, and Nutrition evaluation - Product Stability assessment, ingredient compatibility, dosage evaluation, shelf-life assessment, and formulation feasibility Label Compliance & Regulatory Compliance - FDA and EFSA Label Compliance reviews - Regulatory Compliance assessments for Food & Supplements - Supplement Facts, Nutrition Facts, ingredient declarations, allergen statements, and structure/function claims - Verification of Product Formulation against Label Compliance and Regulatory Compliance requirements Research & Development & Technical Documentation - Research & Development support for new products, reformulation projects, and ingredient evaluation - Technical Documentation review including Certificates of Analysis (COAs), supplier specifications, traceability records, and product substantiation - Scientific Research reviews supported by Food Science, Chemistry, and Food Engineering Every engagement follows a structured review process. I begin by understanding your product, target market, commercial objectives, and available documentation. The Product Formulation, Label Compliance, Technical Documentation, Product Stability, Nutrition, Scientific Research, and Regulatory Compliance requirements are then reviewed together. Clients receive a structured report with technical observations, supporting evidence, identified risks, and practical recommendations before manufacturing, retailer submission, Amazon launch, or regulatory review.

  • Product Development
  • Product Formulation
  • Label Compliance
  • Food & Supplements
  • Nutrition
  • Research & Development
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Food & Beverage
  • Food Science
  • Food Engineering
  • Recipe Development
  • Scientific Research
  • Chemistry
  • Technical Documentation
  • Product Stability
Ana A.

Somerset West, South Africa

$100/hr
4.5
18 jobs

MSc. Nutrition | 100+ Supplements Developed | EU, UK, US Regulatory Guidance I help health and wellness brands turn supplement ideas into scientifically sound, regulation-compliant products that stand out—ready for market. With over 20 years’ experience in nutraceutical product development, I’ve formulated and launched 100+ dietary supplements across Europe, the UK, South Africa, and the U.S. Whether it’s a capsule, gummy, powder, or functional beverage, I manage the full development lifecycle: from ideation, regulatory strategy, formulation, sourcing, and stability to label compliance and co-manufacturer support. What I offer: Custom formulation (sports, immune, cognitive, hormonal, metabolic, or beauty) Supplement development (incl. capsules, tablets, gummies, sachets, drink mixes) Ingredient selection & sourcing (vegan, organic, patented, EFSA/UK-compliant) Label & health claim guidance (EU/UK/South Africa/FDA regulations) Co-manufacturer or private label consulting Pre-Consultant Requirements: Existing formula or concept Target market (US/EU, etc.) Main objectives or concerns My Skills: Nutritional Supplements Product Formulation Regulatory Compliance Ingredient Research Nutraceuticals Nutritional Science Labeling & Packaging Private Label Consulting Qualifications: MSc. Holistic Health & Nutrition Education (USA) BSc. Nutritional Science (UK) Marketing Management (South Africa) Message me to discuss your next supplement or food innovation. Let’s take your concept from sketch to shelf. F&Q 1. I only have a product idea. Can you still help me? Absolutely. Whether you have a full formula or just a concept (like "immunity gummies for women"), I’ll guide you step-by-step using my development toolkit to turn your idea into a feasible, regulatory-aligned product. 2. Will my formulation be legal and compliant in my country? Yes — I assess your formulation based on your target market (e.g. EFSA for EU). I’ll flag banned ingredients, dose limits, and provide guidance on allowable claims. 3. What documents or support will I receive after our session? Depending on your package, you'll receive a written review summary, claim mapping sheet, or formulation toolkit with editable templates (cost calculator, brief template, and more). Everything is easy to use or send to your manufacturer.

  • Product Development
  • Research & Development
  • Product Formulation
  • Nutrition
  • Food & Supplements
  • Health & Fitness
  • Scientific Research
  • Science
  • Food Science
Salmon N.

Somerset West, South Africa

$80/hr
5.0
29 jobs

I help ambitious product brands and startups turn physical product ideas into manufacturable, market-ready products. I’m an industrial designer with 10+ years of experience taking products from concept to production. I've partnered with clients to design best-in-class products that have SOLD MILLIONS OF UNITS and generated over 9 FIGURES IN REVENUE (USD). I specialize in guiding products through the critical stages of development — concept development, engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing preparation — ensuring ideas become real products that can be successfully produced and launched. 🔶EXPERIENCE My approach combines industrial design, engineering, and manufacturing knowledge to develop products that are visually compelling, optimized for manufacturing, and commercially viable. Throughout my career I’ve helped companies move from early concepts and rough prototypes to fully developed, production-ready products. A core focus of my work is balancing: • Visual brand alignment • User experience • Engineering practicality • Manufacturability • Cost-effective production 🔶SERVICES Core services I offer include the following: • Product strategy & roadmap planning • Product development strategy & development guidance • Concept development & ideation • Industrial design • Mechanical design & Engineering • Functional prototyping • CAD development (SolidWorks & Fusion360) • Design for manufacturing (DFM) • Manufacturing preparation & supplier guidance 🔶WHAT I BRING TO THE TABLE Collaborative Development I work closely with founders and product teams to move projects forward efficiently and ensure the final product aligns with the original vision. End-to-End Product Development I help guide the product development process from initial concept through engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing preparation. Manufacturing-Focused Design Products are developed with production in mind from the beginning, reducing risk when transitioning from prototype to manufacturing. Real Product Launch Experience Products I’ve helped develop have sold millions of units globally, generating over 8 figures in revenue (USD). 🔶LET'S BUILD SOMETHING GREAT If you're developing a new physical product and need help turning an idea into a manufacturable, market-ready product, feel free to reach out.

  • Industrial Design
  • 3D Modeling
  • Sketching
  • 3D Rendering
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • 3D Printing
  • SolidWorks
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • KeyShot
  • Rapid Prototyping
Lamar P.

Centurion, South Africa

$52/hr
4.8
570 jobs

Clients hire me when they need more than a design file — they need a product that’s manufacturable, elegant, and backed by 15+ years of proven results. With nearly 600 projects completed, Top Rated Plus status for 5+ years, a 100% job success score, and hundreds of 5-star reviews, I bring a track record to deliver confidently. With 20+ years in industrial design and engineering, I specialize in Furniture Design, Medical Products, and Pet Industry products aligned with international standards. My unique edge: a strong foundation in manufacturing techniques combined with materials mastery, giving you a “no-gap” solution where design, function, and compliance meet seamlessly. Deep Knowledge of the Full Development Cycle - Research & Benchmarking – Competitive teardown analysis, materials research, ergonomics, cost implications. - Concept Design – Sketches, ideation, and form factor optimization tuned for user experience. - CAD Modeling & DFM – 3D assemblies, full DFA/DFM practices to ensure scalable manufacturing. - Engineering for Compliance – Parts engineered to last. - Rapid Prototyping – 3D printing, CNC machining, Wood and Metal Fabrication Drawings - Production Support – BOM management, supplier liaison, tolerance analysis, and full production packs ready for manufacturing partners. This end-to-end fluency means you won’t have to juggle multiple freelancers or worry about knowledge gaps. My portfolio includes contributions to high-profile products: - Many furniture solutions for Ukhuni, South Africa - Various medical products for Vive, USA - Over 50 projects specific to the Pet Industry When you work with me, your idea isn’t just designed - it’s engineered for success.

  • Product Development
  • Concept Design
  • Design for Manufacturing
  • Industrial Design
  • Product Design
  • Label & Packaging Design
  • Engineering Design
  • 3D Rendering
  • Covers & Packaging
  • Packaging Design
  • Manufacturing & Construction
  • Consumer Goods
Adrian R.

Cape Town, South Africa

$15/hr
5.0
24 jobs

I am passionate about all types of writing and research. For me, job satisfaction comes from an idea or message that is communicated and shared with others in a way that is understandable and enriching. My research and writing skills are honed by the high standards of academic philosophy. These skills allow me to work with complex concepts and communicate them in an effective and understandable way, whether for an academic or general reader. Furthermore, writing academic projects has taught me a very high level of editing and proofreading which is a fundamental requirement of academic writing. I bring this approach to all my writing projects. Extensive experience as a tutor and teaching assistant in essay writing and philosophy has given me strong abilities to identify errors and correct them effectively. Part of correcting errors is explaining in a constructive manner how to prevent them from happening again, which is a core element of of my teaching method. Working in the corporate environment as a researcher and product developer taught me how to work well under pressure, meet deadlines and have a fast sense of problem solving without sacrificing quality of work.

  • Writing
  • Proofreading
  • Philosophy
  • Content Writing
  • Academic Content Development
  • Academic Research
  • Tutoring
  • Qualitative Research
  • Research Papers
  • English
  • Academic Writing
  • Academic Editing
  • Academic Proofreading

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