Food Technologist
Food technologists oversee all aspects of product development, review and approve nutritional data, write product specifications and enforce USDA labeling regulations on new and modified food products. They develop and improve food products for safer and healthier consumption. Additionally, they research products, markets and technology to improve existing brand and product offerings.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Develop and update food product formulations
- Collaborate with food production staff for quality, safety, labeling, production, handling and distribution of food products
- Test samples for sensory aspects and shelf life
- Support new product development and/or processes based on consumer feedback
- Research products, markets and technology to improve existing brand/product offering
- Work with small-scale food manufacturing equipment
- Ensure quality and safety of food products while adhering to federal compliance requirements
- Revise and develop nutritional information and ingredient declarations for finished product labels
- Prepare samples for shipment
- Create samples and prototypes of new products in both small and large quantities
- Source new ingredients as needed in the design of formulations with an eye for functionality, cost and regulatory compliance
- Maintain accurate records to ensure smooth start up for new product production processes
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- computer skills
- mathematics
- biology
- chemistry
- family and consumer sciences
Education/Training Required:
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in food science or in a related field is needed.
