GAINESVILLE, Fla., June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-iReach/ — ABC Research Laboratories today announced the addition of food scientist and veteran of the restaurant industry Lori Stephens to its growing team of food testing experts. As the new business development director for clients in the restaurant and foodservice industries, Stephens’ strong background not only in food safety and quality assurance, but also business development in the food industry will provide a one-two punch of superior consultation and excellent customer service.

“I’m delighted Lori Stephens has joined the ABC Research Laboratories team,” commented Chief Scientific Officer, Gillian Dagan. “I have known Lori since 1999, and always considered her a quintessential professional. She is an amazing addition to our staff and brings a innovative vision and technical knowledge to the table.”

Stephens comes to ABC Research after over eleven years of service with Darden Restaurants (Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, etc.), the world’s largest full-service restaurant company. As director of total quality commodities, Stephens led teams responsible for development, implementation, compliance and continuous improvement of supplier food safety and quality standards. She was also responsible for the food safety and quality of all commodity products purchased by all Darden brands, and worked directly with culinary experts, food scientists, nutritionists, and vendor partners on brand-impact products. During her time at Darden, Stephens also served as a food scientist, technical specialist, and manager of data and quality systems management.

Prior, Stephens acted as citrus sales and business development manager for Ecolab, Inc. She worked in product development and quality assurance of citrus and non-citrus beverages with Lykes-Pasco Beverage Co. in Dade City, FL, and Kerry Food Ingredients (formerly Crystals International) in Plant City, FL.

“We are very fortunate to have Lori Stephens join the ABC Research Laboratories team as a new Business Development Director,” remarked CEO Eric Graves. “Lori brings with her a tremendous background in the food industry. Her acedemic proficiency, coupled with her professional experience in sales and quality management will be a tremendous asset to all of ABC Research’s clients. Lori has already hit the ground running at the laboratory and is looking forward to helping our clients with all of their food safety, quality and nutritional value requirements.”

Lori Stephens holds a masters of science degree in food science, and a bachelor of science in microbiology and cell science, both from the University of Florida. She is a Registered Environment Health Specialist (REHS), and is a member of the National Environmental Health Association.

Media Contact: Chuck Ellis ABC Research Laboratories, 352.372.0436, chucke@abcr.com

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SOURCE ABC Research Laboratories