In an era of increasingly stringent global food challenges, students from M.Sc. Food Technology (IMSc in Food Technology) is leading the pack toward solving problems such as food scarcity, safety, and quality. Their singular blend of science and sustainability makes them perfect for the solution of this complex problem shaping the food system of the future.
Tackling Food scarcity
Food scarcity is still very pressing because the world is likely to reach 9 billion by 2050. Food technology graduates are putting in place the new discoveries of agricultural techniques, bioprocessing, and alternative sources of protein to make more food available. For example, they are producing plant-based proteins as well as lab-grown meats to complement the regular food systems, thus feeding people with a sustainable and scalable approach.
Enhancing Food Safety
Foodborne illnesses remain a significant global health issue, affecting millions of people every year. Experts in food technology are playing a key role in improving safety standards up and down the supply chain. By applying advanced technologies such as blockchain for traceability and real-time pathogen detection systems, these graduates ensure that food products reach consumers in the safest condition possible.
Ensuring Food Quality
Urban and health-conscious markets are creating growing demand for high-quality nutrient-dense foods. Functional foods, which add enhanced health benefits to basic food products, such as probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, or plant sterols, have graduates innovating in the functional space. Packaging technologies-biodegradable and smart packages-to sustain food quality while also mitigating adverse environmental impacts are progressing with their development.
The Role of Academia and Industry
Collaboration between academia and the food industry has become a driving force in addressing these critical challenges. Institutions like BIT Mesra, known for their strong focus on food technology programs, are producing graduates ready to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world applications. These programs foster expertise in biochemistry, microbiology, and engineering, creating well-rounded professionals ready to tackle food system challenges.
The graduates of IMSc in Food Technology solve current issues but are better equipped to handle the problems that arise tomorrow. The contribution that such individuals make toward food scarcity, safety, and quality reminds us about this discipline's importance to create a resilient and sustainable food future.