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Food Processing Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope
Degrees offered: Diploma, M.Sc., B.Sc., B.E /B.Tech, B.Voc.
What is Food Processing
Food Processing is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the transformation of raw ingredients into safe, nutritious, and value-added food products. It combines elements of food science, microbiology, engineering, and quality control to improve food shelf life, safety, and nutritional value. Through practical training, lab work, and industrial exposure, students gain skills in packaging, preservation, and production technologies.
Food Processing courses are available at diploma, UG, PG, and doctoral levels across India, with around 460 colleges offering these programmes. UG eligibility requires 10+2 in science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics). For PG courses, candidates must have a relevant bachelor’s degree in Food Processing or a related field from a recognised university.
With increasing demand for processed and packaged foods globally, the food processing industry is one of India’s fastest-growing sectors. The field plays a crucial role in enhancing food security, reducing post-harvest losses, and ensuring food safety. Graduates in this domain contribute to innovation in sustainable food systems, public health nutrition, and agro-industrial development.
Food Processing: Highlights
Food Processing courses are offered at undergraduate and postgraduate levels across various Indian institutes. These programmes equip students with skills in food preservation, safety, and innovation. From B.Tech to MSc and MBA, the field offers diverse career paths. Here are some of the key highlights of Food Processing education in India.
| Particulars | Values |
|---|---|
Branch Name | Food Processing |
Degree | |
Eligibility | UG: 10+2 in the science stream PG: Bachelor's degree in a related field |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam or Merit-Based |
Entrance Exam | UG: CUET UG, JEE Main, WBJEE, TS EAMCET, KEAM PG: CUET PG, CMAT, GATE, CAT |
Average Fees | Rs. 20,000 - Rs. 10 Lakhs |
Job Profile | Food Technologists, Bacteriologists, Toxicologists, Food Production, or Food Cooking Machine Operators |
Average Salary | Rs. 3.7 LPA (Food Technologist) |
Top Recruiters | MTR Foods Limited, Dabur India Limited, PepsiCo India, Nestle India Private Limited, Agro Tech Foods, Perfetti India, Cadbury India Limited, Gits food products private Limited |
Top Food Processing Private Colleges in India
Many private institutions offer Food Processing courses. These private institutions often provide more benefits than public colleges. The tuition fee is typically determined by the infrastructure and facilities available to students. The table below includes a few private colleges that offer Food Processing, along with their respective fees:
| Top Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 1.20 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3.20 Lakhs | |
Rs. 8.62 Lakhs | |
Rs. 7.53 Lakhs | |
Rs. 2.26 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3.75 Lakhs | |
Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Virudhunagar | Rs. 4.53 Lakhs |
Rs. 9.05 Lakhs | |
Rs. 6 Lakhs | |
Rs. 40,000 |
Note: The fee structure provided above can be for any particular Food Processing (Diploma/ Degree/PGD).
Top Government Food Processing Colleges in India
Several government institutes across India offer Food Processing courses at affordable fees while maintaining strong academic standards. These institutions are well-regarded for their infrastructure, experienced faculty, and industry-relevant curriculum. Before applying, candidates should review the eligibility criteria. Below is a list of top government colleges offering Food Processing programmes.
| Top Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 75,240 | |
Rs. 31,560 | |
Rs. 1.14 Lakhs | |
Rs. 81,970 | |
State Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Jabalpur | Rs. 29,250 |
Rs. 49,850 | |
Rs. 49,860 | |
State Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Thuvakkudi | Rs. 47,000 |
Institute of Hotel Management Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Panipat | Rs. 54,700 |
Rs. 1.50 Lakhs |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Food Processing
To pursue a Food Processing course, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements set by colleges and universities. These may vary slightly by institution and programme level. Admission is generally based on academic performance. Below, we have mentioned the general eligibility criteria for both undergraduate and postgraduate Food Processing courses.
For Undergraduate
Undergraduate food processing courses require candidates to meet basic academic qualifications set by colleges or universities. Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the institution and course level. Below, we have outlined the general eligibility requirements for UG programmes in food processing to help students understand the admission process.
- Students must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognised board with subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics or Biology.
- Candidates must obtain at least 55 per cent marks in their 10+2 examination.
Food Processing UG Entrance Exams
Students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses in Food Processing must qualify for relevant entrance exams conducted at the national or state levels. These exams help secure admission to reputed institutes offering B.Tech or BSc in Food Processing. Below are some of the major entrance tests required for admission into top colleges.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | NTA | ||
National | NTA | ||
State | West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board | ||
State | JNTU Hyderabad | ||
State | Commissioner for Entrance Examinations |
For Postgraduate
To pursue postgraduate studies in food processing, candidates must fulfil the minimum academic requirements specified by the respective universities. Eligibility criteria may differ by institution or specialisation. Below, we have mentioned the general eligibility guidelines for PG courses to assist students in preparing for advanced studies in this field.
- Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, Agriculture, Home Science, or a related discipline from a recognised university.
- Most institutions require at least 50–60 per cent aggregate marks in the qualifying examination.
- A few institutions may also prefer candidates with relevant internship or research experience during their UG studies.
Food Processing PG Entrance Exams
Students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies in Food Processing may need to qualify for specific entrance exams conducted by universities or national bodies. These exams assess a candidate’s subject knowledge and eligibility for advanced education. Below are some common entrance tests accepted by reputed institutions offering PG programmes in Food Processing.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | NTA | ||
National | IITs | ||
National | NTA | ||
National | IIM Lucknow |
Scope of Food Processing in India and Abroad
The scope of Food Processing is expanding rapidly due to increasing consumer demand for safe, nutritious, and value-added food products. With the rise of health-conscious lifestyles and packaged food consumption, the industry offers ample career opportunities in sectors like dairy, meat, seafood, bakery, beverages, and ready-to-eat products.
Graduates in Food Processing can work in quality control, research and development, food safety, supply chain management, and packaging. Employment opportunities are available in government departments, MNCs, FMCG companies, and agri-food startups. As the industry modernises with automation and sustainability practices, skilled professionals are in high demand across India and abroad.
Course Fees Food Processing
| Minimum Fees | Maximum Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Government | Private | Government | |
| UG |
1.98 K
B.Sc. in Food Processing at VV Vanniaperumal College for Women, Virudhunagar
|
8.30 K
B.Sc.(Hons) in Food Processing at Bankura University, Bankura
|
16.87 Lakhs
B.E /B.Tech in Food Processing at School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun
|
13.02 Lakhs
B.Tech M.Tech in Food Processing at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
|
| PG |
3.21 K
M.Sc. in Food Processing at Queen Mary's College, Chennai
|
3.00 K
M.Sc. in Food Processing at University of Allahabad Allahabad
|
6.49 Lakhs
M.Sc. in Food Processing at School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun
|
5.95 Lakhs
P.G.D.M in Food Processing at Indian Institute of Plantation Management, Bangalore
|
| DOCTORAL |
60.00 K
Ph.D in Food Processing at Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi
|
15.12 K
Ph.D in Food Processing at Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer
|
8.58 Lakhs
Ph.D in Food Processing at Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women's University, Jaipur
|
4.82 Lakhs
Ph.D in Food Processing at Mahamaya College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Ambedkarnagar
|
| DIPLOMA |
9.63 K
Diploma in Food Processing at Pt Mohan Lal SD College for Girls, Fatehgarh Churian
|
2.20 K
Diploma in Food Processing at Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer
|
13.36 Lakhs
Diploma in Food Processing at Indian School of Hospitality, Gurugram
|
2.25 Lakhs
M.Sc. in Food Processing at SNDT Womens University, Mumbai
|
Course Subjects
The Food Processing course covers a wide range of subjects that prepare students with the knowledge and skills required for the food industry. Topics include food preservation, microbiology, engineering, and safety. Below, we have listed the core subjects taught at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Food Processing programmes.
Food Processing UG Syllabus
This is a B.Tech Food Processing syllabus, as per UGC guidelines, which includes subjects like food preservation, microbiology, food engineering, and quality evaluation. The curriculum offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning to prepare students for careers in the food industry. Below is the semester-wise structure of the programme.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
Fundamentals of Food Technology | Technology of Food Preservation |
Principles of Food Science | Food Processing Technology |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
Food and Nutrition | Technology of Cereals, Pulses and Oilseeds |
Technology of Fruits, Vegetables and Plantation Crops | Food Microbiology |
Technology of Dairy and Seafood | Technology of Meat, Poultry and Eggs |
Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
Food Engineering | Food Chemistry-II |
Food Chemistry-I | Food Quality and Sensory Evaluation |
Food Processing PG Syllabus
The postgraduate curriculum in Food Processing focuses on advanced concepts like therapeutic nutrition, clinical biochemistry, food microbiology, and community health. It equips students with research and analytical skills essential for careers in nutrition and the food industries. This is the MSc in Food Processing programme offered at Calcutta University.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
Food Chemistry | Therapeutic Nutrition And Dietetics |
Nutritional Biochemistry | Genetics: Inborn Errors Of Metabolism |
Applied Physiology & Cell Biology | Sports And Space Nutrition |
Advanced Nutritional Science | Food Microbiology And Food Toxicology |
Food Analysis And Cell Biology | Clinical Biochemistry & Food Microbiology |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
Modern Concept Of Community Nutrition & Public Health | Statistics & Research Methodology |
Advanced Food Science & Food Processing | Community Nutrition & Computer Application |
Food Processing, Therapeutic Nutrition, and Dietetics | Dissertation |
- | Biophysical Principles/ Food Service Management/Food Product Development |
- | Maternal And Child Nutrition/ Geriatric Nutrition/ Future Nutrition Research |
Careers in Food Processing
The food processing industry offers a wide range of career opportunities due to increasing consumer demand for safe, nutritious, and high-quality food. As the global population grows and lifestyles evolve, there is a rising need for skilled professionals to ensure efficient food production, safety, innovation, and sustainability across the supply chain.
With advancements in automation, packaging, quality control, and food technology, the sector continues to expand, requiring trained manpower alongside machines. Qualified professionals contribute to streamlining operations, improving food shelf life, and meeting regulatory standards, making food processing a promising and impactful career field.
Upcoming trends
The food processing industry is rapidly evolving to meet modern consumer demands for safety, sustainability, and health-conscious choices. Technological innovation and changing lifestyles are driving new developments in the sector. Current trends in food processing focus on improving nutrition, extending shelf life, and enhancing flavour and convenience. Key trends include:
- Clean Label and Minimal Ingredient Products
- Plant-Based and Alternative Proteins
- Functional and Fortified Foods
- Smart Packaging and Traceability
- High Pressure Processing (HPP)
- Cold Chain and Vacuum Packaging Technologies
- Sugar and Salt Reduction Technologies
- AI and IoT in Food Quality Monitoring
- Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods
- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Processing Methods
Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
Food Processing graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in the food industry, including roles in production, quality control, research, and safety. They can work with food manufacturing companies, government agencies, or research labs. Below are some of the common job profiles available after completing a Food Processing course.
| Job Profiles | Job Description |
|---|---|
Food Technologists are responsible for developing and improving food products, ensuring they are safe, nutritious, and meet quality standards. They work closely with production teams to optimise processing techniques and shelf life. | |
Bacteriologist | Bacteriologists study bacteria in food products to identify potential contamination and ensure microbial safety. They conduct lab tests and support food safety regulations in manufacturing environments. |
Toxicologists assess the safety of food ingredients, additives, and contaminants by analysing their effects on human health. They help ensure regulatory compliance and prevent harmful substances from entering the food chain. | |
Food Production Professional | Food Production Professionals oversee the entire process of transforming raw ingredients into finished food products. They manage production lines, ensure hygiene and safety standards are met, and work to maintain consistent product quality in large-scale manufacturing units. |
Food Cooking Machine Operators | Food Cooking Machine Operators operate industrial cooking equipment used in mass food production. They regulate temperature, monitor equipment performance, and ensure food is cooked safely and efficiently. |
Top Recruiters
- MTR Foods Limited
- Dabur India Limited
- PepsiCo India
- Nestle India Private Limited
- Agro Tech Foods
- Perfetti India
- Cadbury India Limited
- Gits food products private Limited
- Amul
- Godrej Industrial Limited
Average Salary
The average salary in the food processing industry varies depending on the job role, qualifications, experience, and employer. Candidates with technical expertise and advanced degrees often secure higher-paying roles. Below, we have listed some of the key job profiles in food processing along with their estimated average salary packages.
| Job Profiles | Average Salary (LPA) |
|---|---|
Food technologist | Rs. 3.7 LPA |
Bacteriologist | Rs. 2 LPA |
Toxicologist | Rs. 5.8 LPA |
Food Production Professional | Rs. 2.1 LPA |
Food Cooking Machine Operators | Rs. 4 LPA |
Source: AmbitionBox
Required Skillset for Food Processing
To excel in the field of Food Processing, candidates need a combination of technical knowledge, analytical abilities, and industry-specific expertise. These skills allow professionals to innovate, maintain food safety standards, and optimise production processes. Below are some of the essential skills required for a successful career in food processing:
- In-depth knowledge of food chemistry and microbiology
- Understanding of food preservation and processing techniques
- Ability to operate and maintain food processing equipment
- Quality control and food safety management skills
- Data analysis and documentation proficiency
- Problem-solving and process improvement abilities
- Familiarity with food regulations and labelling standards
- Teamwork, communication, and project management skills
Course Curriculum for Food Processing
The Food Processing curriculum is designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for food manufacturing, preservation, and quality control. It blends core science disciplines with applied food technology and industrial exposure to prepare students for various roles in the food sector. Internships, lab training, and project work are key components. Core subjects typically include:
- Fundamentals of Food Technology
- Food Chemistry and Nutritional Science
- Principles of Food Preservation
- Food Microbiology and Food Safety
- Food Engineering and Processing Equipment
- Technology of Cereals, Pulses, and Oilseeds
- Dairy, Meat, and Seafood Processing
- Packaging Technology and Shelf-Life Studies
- Quality Control and Sensory Evaluation
- Industrial Management and Food Laws
- Research Methodology and Statistics
- Industrial Training or Dissertation Work
Popular Food Processing Entrance Exams in India
Popular Food Processing Colleges in India VIEW ALL
SRM University Chennai
- Fees: ₹ 320000
- Exams: GATE , SRMJEEE PG
LPU Jalandhar
- Fees: ₹ 676000
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: Is Food Processing a good career option in India?
Answer :
Yes, with the growing demand for packaged, nutritious, and safe food, there’s a consistent need for skilled professionals in this sector. Government schemes and rising food exports have also created more opportunities in India.
Question: Which entrance exams are required for admission into Food Processing courses?
Answer :
For undergraduate courses, exams like CUET UG, JEE Main, and state-level tests are accepted. For postgraduate admissions, CUET PG, GATE, CMAT, and CAT are commonly required, depending on the course type.
Question: What are the best courses to pursue a career in Food Processing?
Answer :
Students can start with a diploma or bachelor’s degree like B.Tech or B.Sc in Food Technology. For advanced roles, pursuing a master’s or PG diploma in Food Processing or related fields like Food Science or Nutrition can boost your career.
Question: What jobs can someone obtain in the food industry after a UG degree in Food Processing?
Answer :
Many companies hire graduates for roles like food technologist, production supervisor, or quality analyst. However, internships and hands-on training during the course will significantly improve your employability.
Question: What is the average salary after a food processing course?
Answer :
The average salary after the food processing course varies from person to person and place to place. The average salary of a Food technologist is Rs. 3.7 LPA.
Questions related to Food Processing
Showing 1632 out of 1632 Questions
3 Views
I want a clg list for food technology
23rd Jun, 2025
Hello aspirant,
Here below I am providing you with the name of some of the best food technology colleges:
- The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
- National Institute of Technology Rourkela
- Amity University, Noida
- National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur
- Jadavpur University
To know about many more colleges you can visit our site through following link:
https://engineering.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-food-technology-colleges-in-india
Thank you
Answer later 3 Views
Government colleges in EAPCET in bipc and SC category agriculture and food technology
22nd Jun, 2025
If you are from BIPC stream and SC category then you are eligible for government college through EAPCET in agriculture and food technology course in andra pradesg , colleges like ABGRAU ,SVVU and DR YASTHU offer B.Sc. Agriculture and food technology
3 Views
I want to admission for bsc food technology in the jntuk Kakinada
12th Jun, 2025
Hey there! If you’re aiming for B.Sc. Food Technology at JNTU Kakinada, I’ve got some news: after looking into it, it seems they actually offer B.Tech in Food Technology (or Food Engineering) instead of B.Sc. I think there might be a mix-up, but don’t worry, I’ll guide you through.
For B.Tech Food Technology, you’ll need to have taken the AP EAMCET 2025 exam. The results were declared on June 8, 2025, so check your score if you’ve appeared for it. The counselling process, where seats are allotted based on your rank and preferences, starts in the first week of July 2025 . Make sure to register and choose JNTU Kakinada as an option if you’re eligible.
Eligibility and Course Details
You’ll need to have passed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (or Biology/Biotechnology) with at least 45% marks (40% for reserved categories) to be eligible for AP EAMCET. The B.Tech program is a four-year course under the School of Food Technology, focusing on food science, processing, and quality control, with modern labs and experienced faculty.
3 Views
I want to admission for bsc food technology in the jntuk Kakinada
16th Jun, 2025
JNTUK Kakinada does not offer B.Sc. Food Technology course. It offers B.Tech in Food Technology through AP EAPCET exam. For B.Sc. Food Technology, you can try other universities in Andhra Pradesh.
1 View
Food technology government college literal entry list
31st May, 2025
hi,
If you’re looking for government colleges that offer Food Technology through lateral entry, there are a few good ones you should check out. Colleges like NIFTEM Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu), Jadavpur University (West Bengal), and CFTRI Mysore are really solid. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and CAEPHT in Sikkim are also known for their Food Tech programs.
For lateral entry, you usually need to have a diploma in a related field. Admission is mostly through state-level counselling or entrance exams like JELET (West Bengal), LEET (Haryana), or other state-specific ones. Make sure to check the official websites of these colleges for exact cutoff lists and eligibility.
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