What do they do?

No matter what happens in the job market, food is a constant in our lives. And every day, consumers want more from the food on their table. This is where the skills of food technologists come in. They study the chemical, physical and microbiological makeup of the food. The food is processed, preserved, packaged and stored according to the specifications by industry and government. It remains a sunrise industry despite the economic slowdown. The fact that it is in its initial growth stage in India means getting a job is relatively easy. This is one sector that has immense potential to generate employment and revenues in India. Food technologists find employment in food processing, retail, hotels, agri-products (companies), and in the service sector in departments like quality assurance, production, hygiene, laboratories, etc. Everything in the industry is based on physics, chemistry, microbiology, nutrition and engineering. Thus, a student should have sound knowledge of the basic sciences

Skills Needed

.  Knowledge of the physical chemical, biological and mathematical sciences

.  Aptitude for working in a laboratory environment

.  A basic interest in processed foods available in the market

.  Professionals need to have problem-solving skills to develop and test new products

How do I get there?

After completing Class 12 in the science stream from a recognised examination board, you can opt for BSc (hons) in food technology. After that, you can go for higher studies like MSc in food technology at institutes like the Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, or opt for an MBA degree in agri-business management.

Typical day in the life of a Food Technologist

Pros & Cons about this career