Flavor Technologist
Flavor technologists develop and manufacture the flavorings used in food and drink products. They are responsible for prototyping new formulations, running samples in a pilot plant, testing samples and running experiments in a laboratory. They use a variety of analytical tools in combination with their strong technical knowledge to produce flavors.
Career Also Referred To As:
- Flavorist
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Create and modify flavor concentrates for food products
- Run experiments and create small batches of new flavor products
- Set up and operate lab equipment
- Design the processes for making products in large quantities with a consistent flavor, color and texture
- Conduct sensory evaluations to determine quality of flavors
- Select flavors and distribute stock for standard sample requests
- Apply basic flavors and collect flavor performance results
- Build a library of flavors with knowledge of many different applications
- Work with internal teams to determine the best flavors for customers
- Assist with coordinating activities and send out samples to customers
- Provide basic application on flavors without data across many different applications
- Communicate with the regulatory department to ensure documentation needs are met
- Stay organized and concise in documenting all test results
- Keep up to date with current food flavor trends
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- family and consumer sciences
- mathematics
- biology
- chemistry
- computer skills
Education/Training Required:
A bachelor’s degree in food science, nutrition, chemistry or related field is required. To become a certified flavorist, you need to complete an examination with the Society of Flavor Chemists and undergo a seven-year apprenticeship under a senior flavorist.
