A La Carte Connections

A La Carte Connections is a full-service food product and process development consultancy founded in 2010 by food scientist Rachel Zemser, who holds a degree in food science from the University of Massachusetts. With over two decades of hands-on experience working for both small and large food companies, the firm was established to help startup entrepreneurs and established food organizations bring their products to market efficiently and safely. The company provides end-to-end technical support across all stages of the R&D process, from initial concept and bench-top formulation through finished production and commercialization. A La Carte Connections serves a broad spectrum of clients, including existing food companies, food boards, ingredient suppliers, and first-time food entrepreneurs. For established organizations, the company offers both project-based and ongoing technical R&D support, helping teams solve complex formulation and processing challenges. For startups, it provides education, guidance, and hands-on consulting to help new brands navigate the food production landscape, including food safety regulations, co-packer sourcing, labeling requirements, shelf stability, and trade show strategy. The company works across virtually all food categories, including plant-based, meat-based, natural and clean-label products, confections, keto and low-carb items, high-protein and low-protein formulations, and more. A La Carte Connections is particularly noted for its expertise in food chemistry, water activity, shelf stability, and FDA and USDA regulatory compliance. In addition to consulting services, the company has developed a library of downloadable educational resources and e-books designed to demystify the food development process for industry newcomers. These publications cover topics such as food safety, co-packer sourcing, food risk assessment, and the practical realities of launching a food business. Rachel Zemser also participates in industry podcasts and events, contributing thought leadership on R&D processes and CPG product development. The consultancy's client base spans sauce companies, snack food brands, bar manufacturers, pet food startups, and a wide range of other CPG ventures, reflecting its versatility across food formats and market segments.