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INSTITUTE OF FOOD TECHNOLOGISTS
Career Information

INSTITUTE OF FOOD TECHNOLOGISTS The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) is a scientific professional society with a membership of more than 28,000. The purpose of the Institute is to support improvement of the food supply and its use though science, technology, and education. The objective of the Institute is to promote programs, implement proposals, and provide guidance consistent with and in support of the purpose of the Institute.

The Institute has three classifications: "Member" is anyone active in any aspect of the food industry. "Professional Member" includes any individuals who have at least a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science/Technology or a closely related field, and who have worked at least five years in a professional capacity in the food industry. "Student Member" is a full-time student working toward an Associate or higher degree in Food Science/Technology or a related field.

FOOD SCIENCE and FOOD TECHNOLOGY Food Science is the discipline in which biology, physical sciences, and engineering are used to study the nature of foods, the causes of their deterioration, and the principles underlying food processing.

Food Technology is the application of food science to selection, preservation, processing, packaging, distribution, and use of safe, nutritious, and wholesome food.

A Food Scientist studies the physical, microbiological, and chemical makeup of food. Depending on their area of specialization, Food Scientists may develop ways to process, preserve, package, or store food, according to industry and government specifications and regulations. Consumers seldom think of the vast array of foods and the research and development that has resulted in the means to deliver tasty, nutritious, safe, and convenient foods.

FOOD RESEARCH Food Research is the careful, systematic study, investigation, and compilation of information about foods and their components.

FOOD MANUFACTURING Food Manufacturing is the mass production of food products from raw animal and plant materials utilizing principles of food technology

FOOD INDUSTRY In terms of value shipments, food processing is the largest manufacturing industry in the United States.

TEACHER EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

Institute of Food Technologists / Discovery - Institute of Food Technologists