You're a food scientist who needs to stay ahead of the curve. What tools should you be using?

1 Software applications

One of the essential tools for any food scientist is software. Software applications can help you design, analyze, optimize, and communicate your food products and processes. For example, you can use software to create and modify recipes, calculate nutritional values, simulate food behavior, conduct sensory evaluation, and generate reports and labels. Some of the popular software tools for food scientists are Genesis R&D, FoodWorks, CompuSense, and Food Engineering Pro.

2 Laboratory equipment

Another important tool for food scientists is laboratory equipment. Laboratory equipment can help you measure, test, and monitor the physical, chemical, and microbiological properties of your food samples. For example, you can use laboratory equipment to determine moisture, fat, protein, pH, viscosity, texture, color, and shelf life of your food products. Some of the common laboratory equipment for food scientists are balances, ovens, spectrophotometers, rheometers, texture analyzers, and incubators.

3 Online resources

A third tool that can help you stay ahead of the curve as a food scientist is online resources. Online resources can help you access and update your knowledge, skills, and network in your field. For example, you can use online resources to learn about new research, methods, regulations, and opportunities in food science. Some of the useful online resources for food scientists are journals, podcasts, webinars, courses, and professional associations.

4 Mobile devices

A fourth tool that can help you stay ahead of the curve as a food scientist is mobile devices. Mobile devices can help you collect, store, and share data and information on the go. For example, you can use mobile devices to scan barcodes, take photos, record notes, and send emails. Some of the handy mobile devices for food scientists are smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches.

5 Creativity tools

A fifth tool that can help you stay ahead of the curve as a food scientist is creativity tools. Creativity tools can help you generate, evaluate, and implement new ideas and solutions for your food products and processes. For example, you can use creativity tools to brainstorm, sketch, prototype, and test your food concepts. Some of the fun creativity tools for food scientists are sticky notes, whiteboards, 3D printers, and taste testers.

6 Feedback tools

A sixth tool that can help you stay ahead of the curve as a food scientist is feedback tools. Feedback tools can help you gather, analyze, and act on the opinions and preferences of your customers, colleagues, and stakeholders. For example, you can use feedback tools to conduct surveys, polls, interviews, and focus groups. Some of the effective feedback tools for food scientists are SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Zoom, and Qualtrics.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?