(PMCA — June 13, 2025) — First-time host Puratos Corporation welcomed industry professionals to its facility for The ABCs of Compound: Formulating, Applications & Troubleshooting held June 4-6. Nineteen attendees from 14 unique companies participated.
Seven experienced, highly-skilled instructors provided a mix of classroom and hands-on training including the basics of fats in compounds, processing and applications. Attendees practiced molding and filling, enrobing and dipping and did tasting comparisons. On the last half-day, attendees participated in a friendly competition to practice what they learned, working in groups to create unique pieces that would be presented to the instructor team for evaluation.
Attendee commentary:
“I learned a lot that is directly applicable to my job and made connections with instructors/other classmates. Really fun class with a good amount of technical info and lab time.”
“Outstanding – I learned so much about chocolate and the industry. PMCA is a great organization! I would recommend PMCA courses to anyone!”
“Overall, the course was amazing and fast-tracked my understanding of compounds and all of the critical parameters that have to be met to achieve the highest quality products. All of the instructors were equipped to provide key support with the material and outside of the course. I highly recommend this course for anyone interested in learning more about compounds and how they play in our growing industry.”
Attendees earning a certificate of completion:
Delaney Apt, Parker Products
Matthias Bernsdorf, Parker Products
Mike Boaen, Fuji Vegetable Oil
Rafael Castillo, Alianza
Cindy Chan, Tastepoint by IFF
Derek Ford, Prova
Xiangdong Gan, Mantrose-Haeuser Co.
Ronald Hilton, Wolfgang Confectioners
Josiah Huelle, Puratos
David Malaty, Just Born
Linden McGreevy, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
Deontrae Nelson, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company
Kari Ohlson, Bunge
Osmar Orlando Orozco Jimenez, Alianza
Rocío Sanchez Alaniz, Barry Callebaut
Kristina Stork, Bunge
David Vanzin, Syensqo
Jannine Veasy, Puratos
Laura Wells, Ingredion
PMCA is grateful to the individuals and companies that graciously donated instructors, ingredients, products or other items to the success of the course as follows:
Course Development Lead: Randy Hofberger, R&D Candy Consultants
Instructors:
Zachary Freed, Blommer Chocolate Company
Kaitlin Hackett, Cargill
Allyson Martin, Clasen Quality Chocolate
Eric Schmoyer, IRCA Group Americas
Joe Sofia, Cargill
Marlene Stauffer, Blommer Chocolate Company
Ed Wilson, retired AAK USA
Course Assistant: Monica Caparosa, Blommer Chocolate Company
Sample, ingredient and attendee gift bag donations:
AAK
Blommer Chocolate Company
Cargill
Puratos
About PMCA
PMCA is an international organization that enhances the companies and careers of confectionery and snack professionals through inspired learning and the building of long-term personal connections, which empowers our members to create products that bring people joy.