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The food safety sector in India has become a rapidly emerging career option. Learn about the scope of this field, the cost of education, and complete career-related information.

The food safety sector is an excellent option for young people with a science background who want to pursue a career related to public health. Low educational costs, a growing scope, and stable job prospects make this field a strong choice for the future.

The scope of food safety is no longer limited to government inspections. Today, hotels, restaurants, food processing units, dairies, spice industries, packaged food companies, online food delivery platforms, and export houses all require food safety experts.

Due to the strict regulations of FSSAI and state food safety departments, Food Safety Officers and Food Inspectors are being deployed in every district. In addition, the demand for food analysts in private food testing labs has also increased rapidly. It is estimated that 3,000 to 5,000 new jobs may be created in this sector by 2025-26.

Why is the demand for Food Analysts and FSOs increasing?

Today, consumers are more aware than ever about the quality of food. Action against adulterated and substandard food products has intensified.  For this reason, laboratory testing of every food product is becoming mandatory.

A Food Analyst's job is to test samples and determine whether they meet the prescribed standards. A Food Safety Officer, on the other hand, conducts inspections of shops, factories, and hotels in the field. This is why there is a continuous need for qualified candidates in these positions.

Eligibility for Studying Food Safety

A science background is essential to build a career in this field. Candidates must have a degree in Food Technology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Agricultural Science, or Dairy Technology. After graduation, candidates can prepare for FSSAI or state-level examinations.

How much does it cost to study Food Safety? The cost of food safety-related courses varies depending on the college and the specific course.  A ​​B.Sc/B.Tech (Food Technology) degree from a government college costs between ₹20,000 and ₹60,000 per year, while the same course at a private college costs between ₹80,000 and ₹2,50,000 per year.  An M.Sc/M.Tech (Food Science/Food Technology) degree costs between ₹50,000 and ₹3,00,000 per year. If you want to study at a lower cost, government universities and state colleges are better options.

What is the salary?

The starting salary for a Food Safety Officer or Food Analyst can range from ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per month. With experience, the salary can reach ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month. Government jobs also offer benefits such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), medical facilities, pension, and job security.