Overview

Food technologists oversee all aspects of product development, reviewing and approving nutritional data, writing product specifications and enforcing USDA labeling regulations on new and modified food products. 

What responsibilities will I have?

• Collaborate with food production staff for quality, safety, labeling, production, handling, and distribution of food products
• Ensure that food-processing areas comply with government regulations and meet standards for sanitation and waste management
• Support new product development and/or processes based on consumer feedback
• Research products, markets, and technology to improve existing brand/product offering.
• Ensure quality and safety of food products, finding substitutes for harmful ingredients
• Adhere to federal compliance requirements
• Develop samples/prototypes of new products
• Modify existing products to create more marketable products
• Develop specifications for product production labeling
• Compile cost analysis information.  
• Maintain accurate records to ensure smooth start-up for new product production processes

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in food science or in a related field.

To pursue a career as a food technologist:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, computer courses, mathematics, biology and family and consumer sciences.

Where can I work?

Food technologists work for food companies who market and develop food products.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a food technologist will be great over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Institute of Food Technologists
• Institute of Food Science and Technology