It has been the main factor in human existence from the beginning of time. The cultivation of food to sustain us was among the discoveries that altered our lives to the good. But, the rise of companies that process food has taken that advancement to the next level. On this page, we’ll try in answering the query: Are packaged foods a viable job option?
What Is Food Processing?
Food processing is an umbrella term that encompasses the preservation, processing manufacturing, packaging and canning of food items. The way we think of it now food processing began in the 19th and 20th century. But, it was done mostly with military in mind.
The primary responsibility of firms that deal in food processing is to provide high-quality products to consumers. They adhere to the regulations of the government as well as other regulatory bodies.
Methods that are carried out in food processing
Food companies use five primary kinds of processes. Let’s look at them in this article:
1. Food Handling Process
This is the area in which the workers working in the plant or manufacturing facility come in close contact with food items. This is why it is essential be extremely careful to avoid contamination.
2. Extraction Process
Workers take the pulp of different fruits or the contents of bone in this process. They employ methods like the heating process, dry, filtration or grinding.
3. Elaboration
In this stage the primary goal is to change the food into something that is more nutritious. The workers use methods like drying, cooking or distillation to accomplish this. It is also performed out in the case of beverages.
4. Preservation
Microbiological activities are brought to an end at this point. A combination of a variety of methods are used to keep food safe. Pasteurization, ionization and sterilization and microwave radiation are just a few of the preservation techniques that are used in industries like food. Therefore, the consequence is that processed foods have a longer shelf-life.
5. Packaging
When the food or drink is prepared, the packaging process is about to begin. In this stage, it is important to determine if the food that is to be packed is liquid or solid.
Importance of the Packaged Foods Career Path
The food industry that is packaged is responsible for making sure that the food that we eat – biscuits chips, and every other sweet treat one could think of is delivered to us fresh and crisp.
The cases that display different items as well as the boxes that are used in the transport of food products fall within the food industry that is packaged. Thus, in this way, packaging protects the food items, both small and large. Furthermore, attractive packaging can enhance the appearance of the shelves in various stores.
The appealing packaging is in useful when companies compete for attention from their customers. Food companies use bubble wrap and foam, cardboard boxes and various other materials to guarantee the best packaging for their products.
In addition, other related industries like bakeries need the packaging to be made in a particular temperature range. This aids them in keeping the aroma and taste that their goods.
Additionally, the companies that package food are also accountable for the transportation of their products to retailers. Consumers can then purchase these products. In the past the companies have also begun selling their goods online.
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required in the Packaged Foods Industry
We’ve read about the crucial role played by the industry of packaged food in our life. It is time to go an extra step. Let’s take a look at the requirements to begin in this area.
In the first place, you need to have a bachelor’s education in the fields of food processing, technology for food production or engineering. In most entry-level positions the high education diploma or qualification in the field of food packaging are enough. However, a bachelor’s degree in the field of engineering will be required in higher positions only.
Vital Skills Required In The Packaging Industry.
The education you receive can only take you to a certain point in any area. Beyond that in any field, it’s the attitude and capabilities of the person who matter the most. Let’s look at a few of the essential skills required to be successful in this field.
- The ability to work in an intense and fast-paced work environment
- Attention to minute details
- Dexterity and mechanical skills
- Communication skills that are both written and verbal.
- You should be able to raise weighty objects
- It is essential to be an active member of the team
- Hand-eye coordination
Job Opportunities in the Packaged Foods Industry
We have discussed diverse elements of the packaging food industry. Additionally, we looked at the qualifications and abilities required to work good in this field.
We now come to the most important aspect of any discussion about careers. It’s true jobs. It is here that we examine the various options for careers in depth.
However, we must first know the duties in the industry of packaged food. A few of the most typical jobs include the creation of new recipes and new products. In addition, individuals in this field must test their products they’ve created.
They also inspect the food items from a quality control perspective. They also operate the equipment in the manufacturing facilities. They may also be responsible for the supervision of other employees. They additionally work on the sales and marketing of the product, in addition to packaging them.
Packaging Engineer
He is is engaged in every stage of the process of packaging. The process involves creating the packaging, testing its durability, and then shipping the goods. Individuals with a mathematics or science background, as well as the ability to designing are suited to this job.
There are other responsibilities in the job. These include deciding on the most efficient packaging materials and enhancing the design of the packaging that is already in use, and reducing the production cost of packaging. Packaging engineers can earn up to $93,000 per year on average.
Packaging Designer
Every company, from huge multinationals such as Nestle as well as Kellogg’s to smaller, companies, are based upon their designers for packaging. They also are accountable for the appearance and feeling of their packaging. This is comprised of many elements including images, colors, and fonts.
The people who work in packaging design come from backgrounds that include copywriting, marketing as well as industrial design. Packaging designers usually earn more than $58,000 annually.
Packaging Specialist
They are knowledgeable regarding all aspects of packaging. They may have a lot of simple information like the kind of glue that should be used as well as the form of the box.
Packaging specialists also have to ensure that the packaging will not harm the food items. The median wage of packaging specialists is greater than $59,000 per year.
Consumer Behavior Analyst
Anyone who studies consumer behavior should have the most up-to-date information about industry trends. Additionally, he should be aware of results from various methods of market research like focus groups, surveys, launch pilots, etc.
This profile is ideal for those seeking for a job that will work behind the in the background. Analysts of consumer behavior study the effects of brands’ logos, names and colors on purchase decision-making.
Experience in research and statistics can be beneficial in this position. An analyst in consumer behavior earns $46,000 annually on average.
Packaging Operator
Their main responsibilities are checking the packaging equipment and machines. They are also responsible for the setting up of new equipment. Someone who is more attracted in the process of packaging than the final look of the finished product are perfect for this job.
Additionally they work to develop the overall packaging system. In the end, they make sure that all machines function optimally and efficiently. Packaging professionals earn an average of more than $35,000 per year, on average.
Packaging Manager
The role of a packaging supervisor is one who is the one to call the shots on the floor. It is his primary duty to make sure that enough employees are present to work every day. Additionally, he must ensure that there is an adequate supply of raw materials.
Additionally, a packaging manager will also give direction to other employees if required. In addition, a packaging supervisor oversees the operators of packaging. The average salary for a packaging manager is greater than $82000 a year.
How To Start A Packaged Food Business?
There are some steps you must take in order to begin a packaged food business. The first step is to design an item that is stable and attractive to customers. In the next step, you must locate a co-packer to assist you in producing your item in huge quantities. Then, you must come up with a marketing and distribution plan to bring your product in shops.
There’s a growing pattern in the world of food to see people start their own food packaging businesses. If you’re planning to start an enterprise of a modest size or grow your current business These five steps will assist you in starting and achieve success.
1) Define Your Goals
Prior to all else, you must set specific objectives for your packaged food business. What are you hoping to accomplish? Who are your customers? What are your expenses for business? When you have a solid knowledge of these issues it will be easier to plan your business.
2) Research The Competition
Before you start your business it’s essential to know the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors. Which are their company models? What are their costs? What are their primary ingredients? If you do this you can build an effective foundation for your company and make sure that you’re not wasting time.
3) Choose The Right Location
Following that, you need to select the most suitable location for your company. Are you interested in franchising? Are you connected an adequate kitchen? Do the demographics in your area favorably? If you’ve completed these inquiries, it’s now time to start searching for potential areas.
4) Get Licensed And Registered
The most crucial actions in beginning an enterprise in the field of packaged food is to obtain a license and registered. This will shield you from legal issues and guarantee that your business is legally operating.
5) Plan Your Marketing Strategy
After you’ve got your business established, it’s time to plan the marketing plan. What channels do you plan to employ? What will your budget for advertising be? How will you market your product? With a sound marketing strategy, you can ensure that the success of your packaged food business.
Is Packaged Foods A Good Career Path?
The human race will always require food. This is an area where demand will be always high. This implies that there will be employment stability in this particular sector. Additionally, the large multinational companies in this industry pay high-paying salaries and a variety of benefits for employees. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities to grow your career.
There are however negatives, too. The work in the field of packaging can be prone to be repetitive. This may frequently result in employee burnout. Thus, one must be certain prior to taking a leap of faith in the industry of packaged goods.
In addition, packaged foods typically tend to contain high levels of fats and sugars. Excessive exposure to these substances, in the long term can be very detrimental for our health. Additionally, working conditions are often difficult. You will be exposed to dust, heat, as well as noise. In addition the work is expected to be a gruelling deadline and demanding shifts.
Want To Learn About Other Career Paths?
If you’d like to learn more about different career options you can check out this list from Totempool. You’ll be able choose based on reliable details prior to moving into an industry you are interested in:
- Basic industries
- Broadcasting
- Business services
- Capital products
- Commercial Banking
- Consumer Services
- Energy
- Healthcare
- Industrial Machinery
- Life Insurance
- Major Banks
- Major Pharmaceuticals
- Metal Fabrication
- Consumer Non-durables
- Oil and gas
- Precious Metals
- Real State Investment Trusts
- Transportation
If you’re not sure regarding the field you’re interested in, then you’ll need to work. Here’s a list of options for career paths that are functional:
- Marketing
- Finance
- Technology