DePerno recently launched NC State Slobberin' Sauce, an officially licensed barbecue sauce inspired by North Carolina's Eastern and Western barbecue traditions.
"It's something that we've been playing with for 15, 16, 17 years... cooking for family, friends, colleagues in the backyard, students," DePerno said.
The sauce began as a homemade recipe that DePerno regularly served at cookouts. Over the years, he refined the formula using the same scientific approach he brings to his work in the classroom.
"Being a scientist, you try different things, you experiment, you succeed, you fail, you know, following the NC State motto, we think and do."
DePerno said the sauce combines flavors from both of North Carolina's signature barbecue styles.
"It brings together both Eastern and Western styles. I've had so many people try it that are, you know, they say I am absolutely Eastern North Carolina. And then they're like, this is really good."
"And the same with the Western North Carolina folks. It is small-batch prepared. High-quality ingredients"
The professor partnered with NC State to make the sauce an officially licensed product, a collaboration he said means a great deal to his family.
"The collaboration with North Carolina State University is extremely important to me and my family."
Beyond barbecue, the project also supports students. A portion of every purchase goes toward scholarships at NC State.
"I love working with students and teaching students and being able to provide some dollars for future scholarships to help train the next generation is very, very important to us."
Slobberin' Sauce is manufactured with help from DePerno's family and is available online, as well as at local festivals and events.