Curtis Braun

Curtis Braun is the SDSU Extension Food Safety Field Specialist, bringing experience in food processing, manufacturing, risk assessment and product development. He has worked closely with South Dakota food entrepreneurs to help bring value-added products, such as processed goods across multiple categories, to market safely and in compliance with state regulations. With a bachelor's degree in Nutrition from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas, Curtis uses his expertise to lower barriers for food entrepreneurs and home processors by providing accessible, low- or no-cost services. These services include labeling support, safety evaluations and guidance to ensure products are both market-ready and compliant.

Areas of Expertise

• Acid and acidified canned goods
• Value added food safety product risk assessments 
• Cottage food law
• South Dakota food regulations

Services

• Product evaluation
  • pH testing 
  • Water activity testing
  • Food safety product risk assessment for value added processed food 
  • Review and approve acid and acidified canned (free for South Dakota residents)
  • Generate and provide ingredient declaration and nutrition facts panels utilizing Genesis Software 
• Guidance in understanding cottage food law and South Dakota food regulations