Encouraging students into food science careers

A video describing how a food scientist developed a soy product that looks, feels and tastes like chicken is the latest addition to the Institute of Food Technologists’  (IFT) video series that shows what it’s like to be a food scientist.

The IFT’s Day in the Life of a Food Scientist series has been developed as an educational tool to encourage participation in the food industry and to aid understanding of the food industry’s role in the broader community.

In the latest video, Fu-Hung Hsieh, PhD, an IFT member and professor of biological engineering and food science at the University of Missouri, discusses his work on a soy-based chicken alternative and why he enjoys making an impact as a food scientist.

The video shows how Hsieh and his colleagues developed a soy product that provides a high-protein, cholesterol-free and gluten-free vegetarian alternative that looks, feels and tastes like chicken. The process begins by extracting soy protein from soy flour and it is then cooked using water, heat and pressure. The product is also environmentally sustainable in terms of the amount of land and water needed to make it.

Hsieh likes working in a field that is both exciting and relevant to daily life. He and his colleagues enjoy seeing their products on the market and knowing that they are creating good-tasting, nutritious and safe food to feed the world.

The ‘Day in the life of a food scientist’ videos are designed to educate students, teachers, media and the general public about the positive impact and rewards of the food science and technology profession.

Other videos in the series include:

• Day in the Life of a Food Scientist at NASA
• Day in the Life of a Food Scientist at Disney Consumer Products
• Day in the Life of a Food Packaging Professional

For more information from IFT on food science careers, visit Become a food scientist.