Food isn’t just something we eat to survive — it is comfort, culture, and now, a space for serious scientific innovation. From the snacks we grab on the go to the ready-to-cook meals in our kitchens, food is being created anew by innovation at every step. And that’s exactly where food technologists come in.
With cities expanding, lifestyles getting busier, and people demanding safer, healthier, and more convenient options, the food industry is growing like never before. According to the Indian Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), India’s food processing sector is projected to reach USD 535 billion by 2025. This kind of growth is creating new opportunities — and one of the most exciting among them is food technology.
So, if you’ve ever wondered how to become a food technologist, here’s a practical, student-friendly guide to help you explore this dynamic field.
What Does a Food Technologist Do?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand the “what.” So, what exactly does a food technologist do?
Simply put, they apply principles of biology, chemistry, and engineering to develop, process, test, and package food. Their work ensures that what we eat is not just tasty — but also safe, nutritious, and built to last. Whether it’s making your favourite snack last longer, improving how it tastes, or finding smarter ways to package it — food technologists are behind it all. They work at every step to make sure what reaches you is safe, tasty, and exactly as it should be.
They can be found in bakeries, dairy and beverage plants, ready-to-eat food factories, research labs, and even government agencies. No wonder the food technologist job scope is wide — and only growing with time.
Start Early: Subjects That Matter
If you’re still in school and interested in this career path, now is the time to lay the groundwork. Subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics are essential. They give you the scientific foundation you’ll need for college-level food technology courses.
Starting early not only gives you an academic edge, but also helps you gain clarity on how to become a food technologist — whether you plan to study in India or abroad.
Your First Step: BSc or B Tech in Food Technology
After Class 12, students usually choose between two undergraduate options: BSc Food Technology or B Tech Food Technology. Both degrees cover subjects like food microbiology, nutrition, chemistry, safety laws, and processing methods.
- The BSc route is more theory-based, with a strong focus on food science.
- The B Tech path adds a technical edge, diving into machinery, automation, and industrial-scale food processing.
What do they have in common? A strong focus on lab work, real-world projects, and industrial training. Many institutions also offer internships through collaborations with food companies — giving students hands-on exposure to industry practices early on. It’s one of the most important parts of learning how to become a food technologist in the real world.
Going Deeper: Specialisations and Postgraduate Study
Once you complete your undergraduate degree, you can either step into the industry or opt for higher studies. A Master’s in Food Technology helps students specialise and stand out in a competitive job market.
- An MSc in Food Technology typically includes food additives, packaging innovations, biotechnology, and safety standards.
- An M Tech in Food Technology focuses on industrial processing, plant automation, and equipment design.
Both paths offer access to cutting-edge research, project work, and mentorship. These experiences often define whether a student ends up in product innovation, academic research, or leadership roles in industry. If you’re serious about how to become a food technologist, postgraduate study can take your skills — and opportunities — to the next level.
Career Paths and Work Opportunities
So, what does life after graduation look like?
Food technology opens doors in multiple areas, including:
- Quality control and assurance
- Product development
- Food safety and hygiene
- Research and innovation
- Packaging and labelling
India’s food sector offers roles in both the public and private sectors. You could land a job with leading companies like Nestlé, Amul, PepsiCo, or ITC, or apply to regulatory bodies like FSSAI.
There’s also growing room for startups. Many young professionals are launching ventures focused on clean-label foods, natural ingredients, or sustainable packaging. If you’re someone who blends scientific skills with a sense of market trends, this could be the perfect space for you.
Trends to Watch: What the Future Holds
Like every fast-paced industry, food tech is changing constantly. Today’s food technologists are expected to keep up with both scientific and consumer trends. Some of the big areas to watch include:
- AI in food quality testing
- Vegan and plant-based innovations
- Clean label and functional food trends
- Sustainable packaging technologies
- Evolving global food regulations
So while a degree is essential, learning doesn’t end at college. Reading industry journals, attending food tech conferences, and staying connected with professionals can help you stay ahead. For anyone asking how to become a food technologist, here’s one simple truth: the more you stay curious, the further you’ll go.
How to Choose the Right College
Choosing the right college can make all the difference. It’s not just about where you study — it’s about the kind of opportunities, guidance, and hands-on experience you’ll get along the way.
When it comes to food technology, not every college offers the same level of training, industry exposure, or placement support. The ideal place is one that blends classroom learning with real-world practice. Look for food technology colleges where students can work in labs, explore research, and build connections with the industry.
So, if you’re searching for food technology colleges in India, look beyond just rankings and shiny brochures. Ask: Do they have strong lab facilities? What kind of companies visit for placements? Are the faculty members experienced in both teaching and research?
Top universities often stand out because of their research culture, patent output, and strong industry partnerships — and these are the things that truly prepare you for a successful career.
Why Shoolini University is the Right Choice
If you’re serious about building a career in food science, Shoolini University is a name worth considering. It’s not just about rankings (though they’re impressive) — it’s about the kind of experience, mentorship, and exposure you get as a student.
Shoolini has been ranked India’s No.1 research university (QS World University Rankings, Asia) and is also recognised as the No.1 Private University in India by both the QS and Times Higher Education World University Rankings. But what makes it truly stand out is how it blends academics with real, hands-on learning.
At the heart of it is the School of Bio-Engineering and Food Technology — a space where students learn all about food science with the support of experienced faculty. Many professors here have done advanced research (including postdocs) at top institutions in India and abroad, and they bring that knowledge straight into the classroom and lab.
The course content? It’s matches what the industry needs today — so students aren’t just learning theory; they’re building skills that actually matter. Whether you choose B Tech, BSc, M Tech, or MSc in Food Technology, the programs cover everything from food science and engineering to nutrition, packaging, and safe storage.
The B Tech course is also part of Shoolini’s flagship Summit Research Program (SRP), which means students start working on meaningful research from the very beginning of their degree — something most universities reserve for postgraduates.
What makes Shoolini unique is the emphasis on practical learning. With access to over 104 high-tech labs, students experiment, innovate, and create — often working on real problems to develop safe, nutritious, and sustainable food products. Shoolini students have filed over 1,500 patents, thanks to its ‘One Student, One Patent’ policy.
The university also houses cutting-edge facilities like the Bio-Innovation Centre, a Cancer Research Centre, and Centres of Excellence, giving students more avenues to explore and grow.
And it’s not just limited to campus. Shoolini has tie-ups with top international universities like Cranfield University (UK), Ankara University (Turkey), Gachon University (South Korea), and the University of Naples (Italy). These partnerships open doors for exchange programmes, joint research, and global exposure that can truly shape a student’s perspective.
And when it comes to placements? Shoolini has consistently maintained a 100% placement record for its food technology graduates, with students securing roles in leading companies and research labs — a strong start to a promising career.
Take a listen to one of our Food Tech students:
A Career with Purpose and Possibility
The food industry isn’t slowing down — it’s growing, changing, and constantly looking for new ideas. In a country like India, where food and agriculture are deeply tied to the economy and everyday life, trained food professionals aren’t just needed — they’re vital.
Learning how to become a food technologist goes beyond ticking off degrees. It’s about being curious, paying attention to how food works in the real world, and finding ways to make it better — safer, healthier, longer-lasting.
Whether your dream is to work with a global company, join the public sector, or build your own brand — food technology offers the kind of career where your work can have a real impact. And with the right mix of education, practical experience, and a willingness to keep learning, you can shape a future where what you do feeds, supports, and inspires millions.
1. How long does it take to complete a degree in food technology?
A B Tech or BSc in Food Technology usually takes 4 years. A postgraduate degree, such as an M Tech or MSc, typically takes 2 more years to complete.
2. What is the difference between food technology and food engineering?
Food technology is all about how food is made, processed, packaged, and kept safe. Food engineering is more about the machines, tools, and systems used in food production. It includes more math and physics.
3. How is food technology different from hotel management or culinary arts?
Food technology is based on science. It deals with food safety, processing, and storage. Hotel management and culinary arts are about cooking, food service, and managing kitchens or restaurants.
4. What skills do I need to succeed in food technology?
You should have an interest in science, especially chemistry and biology. Being curious, careful, and able to solve problems is useful. Teamwork, clear communication, and a habit of learning will also help.
5. What are the latest food technology trends around the world?
Some key trends are:
- Plant-based meats – vegetarian foods that look and taste like meat
- Eco-friendly packaging – materials that are biodegradable or plastic-free
- Smart food tracking – using technology to trace food from farm to table
- Reducing food waste – finding better ways to reuse or save leftover food
These changes are helping the food industry become more sustainable and efficient.
6. Can food technologists work on things like 3D-printed food or lab-grown meat?
Yes, they can. Food technologists are often part of the teams working on such new ideas. They help with testing, improving taste and texture, and making sure the food is safe to eat.
Sources:
https://www.ibef.org/industry/indian-food-industry
https://www.mofpi.gov.in
https://www.fao.org/home/en
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/archive/food
