Question

Discuss briefly the significance of food processing and technology as a discipline.

Answer 1

Benefits of Food Technology

• Storage and Processing of Agricultural Products:
  Food processing and technology helps to store and process agricultural and horticultural produce. It also helps in better post-harvest management.
• Meeting Consumer Demand:
  Food technology allows for the increased production of food products in the face of changing lifestyles. It also serves globalization and the growing consumer demand for packaged products.
• Providing Safe Products:
  It helps in producing food products that are safe, and have minimum amounts of chemicals, pesticides, and preservatives.
• Increasing Shelf Life:
  Food processing techniques are used to extend the shelf life of food products by keeping them fresh for longer.
• Convenient Food Products:
  Food processing makes food items more usable, palatable, concentrated, and easy to transport. This has allowed the processing of perishable items.
• Reduced Preparation Time:
  Food processing makes food more convenient by reducing the time required for cooking. It also makes certain foods instantly usable.
• Value Addition:
  Food processing increases the value of various food products, giving them better market prices and economic value.
• Nutrient Content:
  Fortification is another key technology in food processing that is used to increase the nutritional content of staple foods.
• Meeting the Demands of Lifestyle Diseases:
  With the increased prevalence of lifestyle diseases, food technology can be used to modify the nutrient content in specific foods.
• Economic Growth:
  It contributes to the economic growth of the country.
• Employment Opportunities:
  Food processing is also a major source of employment and can generate opportunities in the rural sector as well.