Careers in Food Science

Food science deals with the study of all the technical aspects related to food, including its production and distribution. It is a very wide term, which comprises of agriculture, fisheries and related services. A food scientist always uses his/her knowledge of science and skills in order to improve the quality and productivity of food items. Moreover, improvement, preservation, packaging and distribution of food come under the purview of a food scientist. He/she is responsible for the quality of the food. His/her task is to scrutinize the content of food in order to find the levels of nutritious ingredients in it and to search the traces of any injurious or unwanted additives, like nitrites.

The accountability of producing nutritious and tasty food lies on the shoulders of a food scientist. A food scientist needs to be dedicated, committed and loyal towards his/her job, as it is the most significant economic activity in the world. Analytical skills are also necessary to become a good food scientist. Patience plays a vital role in this job as lot of research work is involved. Due to its mere importance, many educational institutions in India have come up with the idea of offering special courses in the field of food science, to the young aspirants.

Course Details
In the present scenario, food science has emerged as the most lucrative field to build a career. Many institutions all over India have started offering degree and diploma programs at under graduate as well as at post graduate level in food science. Minimum requirement to seek admission to under graduate programs in food science is 10+2 in science stream, while for post graduate programs the requirement is a B.E/B. Tech degree. The courses are designed in such a manner that creates an inclination towards the job and provides in-depth knowledge. One can even opt for super specialty program in food science.

Career Prospects
Opportunities are waiting for qualified and skilled food scientists in India. After pursuing course in food science, one can work as food technologist, soil, plant, animal scientist or biotechnologist. Food scientists can also work in government offices and laboratories. Many government organizations also hire food scientists to keep a check on the quality of food. After doing post graduation or super-specialty program in food science, one can even opt for lectureship.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Several institutes all over India are imparting training and knowledge in food science. Some of the reputed institutions include University of Calcutta (West Bengal), Mahatama Gandhi University (Kerala), Jadavpur University (West Bengal), University of Agricultural Sciences (Karnataka), University of Madras (Tamil Nadu), University of Delhi (Delhi), Swami Ramanand Teerth Matathwada University (Nanded), Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (Aurangabad) Govind Ballah Pant University of Agriculture & Technology (Uttar Pradesh) and Andhra University (Visakhapatnam).

Remuneration
Career in food science is emerging as one of the most chosen options in India. A beginner can earn between Rs 15000-Rs20000 per month. Experience and knowledge in the field would fetch higher remuneration.