Since joining Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) in late 2021, Dr. Shalini Mishra has been crucial in advancing the company’s plant protein division. As a highly experienced food scientist, Dr. Mishra’s contributions have been integral in building LDC’s state-of-the-art plant protein R&D lab from the ground up, transforming it into a hub of innovation and progress.
“I came to LDC at a really exciting time,” she recalls. “The lab was brand new, and our team was involved in everything—from ordering instruments to defining testing protocols. It was a unique opportunity to build something meaningful from scratch.” By March 2022, the lab was fully operational, and Dr. Mishra and her team were well on their way to driving plant protein innovation for the company.
Today, Dr. Mishra works with a team of five, four of whom are women, as they explore how to create highly nutritious plant-based animal alternatives. One of their key goals is to enhance the flavor and functionality of plant proteins, ensuring that the products meet high standards for both nutrition and consumer satisfaction. “We push the boundaries of what’s possible,” she says. “We leverage existing protein development techniques, but we also go one step further to explore new ways to optimize outcomes.”
For Dr. Mishra, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is the continual learning it requires. “As a researcher, there’s always more to discover. Every protein is different, and understanding how it works in different applications is fascinating to me.”
Her passion for plant proteins goes beyond product development. They focus on how these proteins perform in different formulations, studying factors such as solubility, shelf stability, and interactions with other ingredients.
Dr. Mishra attributes much of her success at LDC to the collaborative and supportive environment within the company. She highlights her manager Kora Rade Kukic, Food & Beverage Applications Director, as a key mentor who has guided her through challenges and provided invaluable growth opportunities. “Kora has been a great support and mentor,” says Dr. Mishra. “She always encourages us to learn and creates opportunities for us to succeed.”
Reflecting on her journey with LDC so far, Dr. Mishra is proud of LDC’s Plant Protein R& D team’s progress.
In less than three years, we’ve built a fully operational R&D center and compiled a highly competitive plant protein portfolio. I’m proud to be part of a team that helps clients solve their food ingredient challenges in innovative ways.
As she continues to contribute to LDC’s mission of creating sustainable and nutritious food solutions, Dr. Mishra’s passion for food science remains as strong as ever. “At the end of the day, our goal is to create safe, nutritious food for everyone, while also being mindful of our planet. That’s what excites me about my job.”
