What is food science and post harvest technology?

Food Science is the study of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of food, and the principles underlying food processing and preservation. It encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines, including chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, and engineering.

Post-Harvest Technology is a branch of food science that focuses on the handling and storage of agricultural products after harvest to maintain their quality and safety. It involves a variety of techniques and technologies, such as refrigeration, controlled atmosphere storage, and modified atmosphere packaging.

Post-harvest technology is essential for reducing food loss and waste, improving food safety, and ensuring the availability of nutritious food to consumers. It also plays an important role in food processing, as it helps to maintain the quality and safety of raw materials used in the production of food products.

Here are some specific examples of how food science and post-harvest technology are applied in the food industry:

* Food scientists develop new and improved food products, such as healthier and more nutritious foods, and foods with longer shelf lives.

* Post-harvest technologists develop and implement techniques to reduce food loss and waste, such as improved harvesting practices, storage conditions, and transportation methods.

* Food scientists and post-harvest technologists work together to ensure the safety of food products by identifying and controlling potential hazards, such as harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

* Food scientists and post-harvest technologists also play a role in developing packaging materials and technologies to protect food products during storage and transportation.

Food science and post-harvest technology are essential disciplines for the food industry. They help to ensure the availability, safety, and quality of food products for consumers.