Introduction

Eating is no longer only a basic human requirement; we’ve come a long way from hunter-gatherer traditions of surviving on whatever food was available. Our world is brimming with enticing food and beverage goods from all around the world. We owe this privilege to the Food Science Technicians who evaluate and analyze the quality of all the food things we consume.

Similar Job Titles

• Food Quality Technician
• Food Quality Analyst
• Food Quality Control Technician

Typical Job Responsibilities

What do Food Science Technicians do?

A Food Science Technician would typically need to:

• Collaborate with food scientists or technologists on production technology research and development, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of food and beverage items.
• Gather and prepare samples in accordance with established processes; test food and beverage goods, additives, and containers to confirm adherence to set safety requirements.
• Analyze the physical and chemical qualities of food and beverage products using standardized qualitative and quantitative tests.
• Identify the ingredients and formulas of food and beverage products; assess the nutritional value, color, flavor, and texture of food and beverage items
• Examine samples for certain types of dangerous molds, yeast, and bacteria; check that production procedures adhere to government, processing, consumer, and industry standards.
• Compile, record, and save test findings on computers; create charts, presentations, and reports based on test results.
• To detect and analyse problems with food and beverage items, monitor and examine test results.
• Provide accurate nutritional information for food labeling; ensure products are fit for distribution
• Explore alternative manufacturing methods which are cost-effective and keep the products fresh, safe, and attractive
• Experiment with recipes for appealing food and beverages; look for novel manufacturing or processing procedures.
• Maintain an updated inventory of chemicals needed to perform the laboratory tests
• Maintain a safe, sterile laboratory environment through regular inspection, calibration, and cleaning

Standard Work Environment

Food Science Technicians work in laboratories, research centres, manufacturing plants, and offices.

Workers in processing plants may be exposed to high temperatures, distracting noises, and chemical or animal odours. They may be required to lift and carry goods as well as be physically active for extended periods of time.

Research facilities and laboratories may also demand you to be on your feet for an extended period of time, but they should be more comfortable than a processing factory.

Work Schedule

During regular business hours, most Food Science Technicians work full-time. When working on a specific project, overtime work, travel for work, and irregular shifts may be required.

Employers

Seeking a new job may appear difficult. Food Science Technicians can improve their job search by soliciting referrals from their network, contacting firms directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media, and contacting staffing agencies.

Food Science Technicians are generally employed by:

• Food Manufacturing & Retail Companies
• Universities
• Government Organisations
• Specialist Research Associations

Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional groups and organizations, such as the Institute of Food Technologists, are essential for Food Scientist Technician who wants to further their professional growth or interact with other professionals in their industry or career.

Participation in one or more of these organizations adds value to your resume while strengthening your credentials and qualifications.

Workplace Challenges

• Physical strain from lifting and carrying objects and standing for extended periods
• Frustration over the inability to get the desirable taste, flavor or texture in products under experimentation
• Discomfort due to extreme temperatures or loud noises if working in a processing plant
• Need to be continuously alert while working with sensitive and sophisticated computers and other lab equipment.

Suggested Work Experience

Food Science Technicians frequently begin their careers as trainees, working under experienced scientists until they have gained enough knowledge and practical experience to do their jobs independently and advance in their firm.

A set of tight government laws defines the many types of training, which vary depending on the work environment and job requirements. It should be noted that the training program should cover manufacturing practices, personal hygiene, and sanitation procedures.

Any academic program in which a potential Food Science Technician enrolls often requires hands-on learning and supervised experience, such as an internship, industrial placement, or co-operative education program.

To demonstrate your devotion to course providers and possible employers, read about the profession and interview/shadow specialists in agriculture and food science.

Recommended Qualifications

Education qualifications may differ depending on the employer’s preferences.

A food science curriculum is available at several major schools and institutions, making it perfect for aspiring Food Science Technicians.

It could be a foundation degree, an HND, or a degree in food science/studies/technology, food/chemical engineering, biochemistry, nutrition, microbiology, or chemistry.

Although some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree, the majority will accept an accredited associate degree in biology, chemistry, or animal science from a community college or technical school.