Understanding the Scope of Food Science and Technology Courses in India

Food Science and Technology is the branch that deals with the physical, chemical, and biological processes of food. It also deep dives into the causes of food deterioration and the concepts underlying food processing. By pursuing a Food Science and Technology course at a reputable university, students can have access to quality education, hands-on experience, industry visits, and more. After completing the course, students get scientific knowledge that helps maintain an abundant and high-quality food supply while minimising waste. 

Benefits of Pursuing Food Science and Technology

Food Science and Technology is gaining a lot of popularity, not only in India but across the globe. Several universities offer courses at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, preparing students for careers in various sectors of the food industry. Here are the key benefits of pursuing Food Science and Technology: - 

• Growing demand in the market: The rapid urbanisation and lifestyle changes across the globe have made food science and technology a popular discipline. It is multi-disciplinary, involving chemistry (organic, inorganic and physical), microbiology, biochemistry, nutrition, and engineering (chemical and process).

• Diverse work environment: Once you complete your bachelor's or master's in this field, you can find different job positions in this industry. You can make a career in manufacturing, education, research and development, quality, and government; the options are endless.

• Travel opportunities: The food industry is global. It will give you a chance to travel for work purposes. Depending on your job, you will travel to several countries for training, business expansion, and other work-related opportunities.

• Create food nutrition awareness: A job in the food industry requires you to spread awareness about nutrition and food safety. While pursuing a course in food science and technology, you can also get the opportunity to be a part of health camps that encourage people to follow healthy eating habits.

Careers You Can Choose After the Course

Following are the most sought-after careers you can choose after completing a bachelor’s or master’s in Food Science and Technology: - 

Food Technologist

This is an individual who determines the food product's claimed quality, safety, and other legalities. Their role is to ensure compliance with food regulations while keeping in mind the nutritional value it offers and its consumer demand. They also improve existing food products and develop new ones.

Quality Assurance Officer

Your responsibility as a quality assurance officer would be to maintain standards of food products while keeping the legalities in mind. Typically, quality assurance officers monitor the food production process so the product meet the quality standards. This is possible with regular food safety audits, which involve checks of ingredient hygiene and food product development equipment.

Food Safety Officer

This is a job role appointed by the Government of India to ensure food safety and compliance with regulations. The food safety officer is involved in planning, managing, and executing food safety programs. They also conduct food safety inspections so that the food products are safe and meet industry standards.

Food Scientist 

Being a food scientist, one needs to apply scientific principles to improve food quality and safety. Additionally, they have to ensure the efficiency of food processing, production, and distribution. It is done with the help of their knowledge of chemistry, biology, microbiology, and other sciences. Food scientists also come up with innovative food products that are also nutritious.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

A regulatory affairs specialist job is to oversee the licensing, marketing, and legal compliance of products for food authorities or other organisations. The role also requires navigating the scientific requirements in the food and beverage industry.

Nutritionist

Currently, one of the most in-demand careers in the market is that of a nutritionist. In this role, you need to study the history of your clients and customise a diet plan as per their body's requirements. Additionally, you need to increase their awareness about the importance of proper nutrition and how they can benefit from it.

Food Chemist

As a food chemist, you need to study the chemical properties of food and beverage products so that better products can be developed. The job role requires you to oversee how these products can be cooked, frozen, packaged, and canned. Since food is not going to be insignificant, this role is a good option.

There is endless scope in the Food Science and Technology industry in India. It offers highly paid jobs while providing a sense of doing good for society. Any job in this field allows students to make a crucial contribution to public health and food safety.

Author Bio

The author is a passionate education writer with a keen interest in emerging career paths and academic trends. With a background in research, she enjoys exploring how specialised fields are shaping the future of the country.