About MBA (Food Technology and Food Enterprise Management)

The MBA (Food Technology and Food Enterprise Management) is uniquely tailored to fulfil the need of trained business graduates having expertise and background of food tech/ food processing domains. This two-year full-time program provides comprehensive insights into food processing, food technology, nutrition, culinary arts, and business management. Specialized courses such as sensory science, food processing and packaging, supply chain management, consumer studies, management accounting, service operations management, food safety and food laws, etc. The robust industry association through various connects like guest lectures, workshops, projects, and field visits, helps students to have experiential learning and gain deep industry operations insights. This integrated approach ensures students gain academic knowledge and industry exposure, preparing them for front-end management roles in food processing industries, where they can contribute effectively to market needs.

Overview of the Food Tech and Food Processing Sector in India

Overview of recent growth in the food processing sector

The food processing industry in India reached a value of US$ 336.4 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 735.5 billion, at a CAGR of 8.8% during 2023-2032, according to IMARC (International Market Analysis Research and Consulting Group).

Growing domestic demand and export potential

demand for ready-to-eat and packaged foods expected to reach Rs. 12 lakh crore (approximately US$ 150 billion) by 2025 (according to ResearchAndMarkets)

Focus on health and organic products

The organic food market in India is projected to reach Rs. 75,000 crores (US$ 9 billion) by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 20% (according to the Indian Organic Market Report 2022)

Integration of Technology

The market for food processing technology is projected to grow to Rs. 2.5 lakh crore (US$ 30 billion) by 2024 (according to the Indian Food Processing Industry report)

Export potential and demand for Indian ethnic food

India's food exports are expected to reach US$ 71 billion by 2025, with ethnic foods, including spices and snacks, accounting for a significant portion of this growth (according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India). The global demand for Indian cuisine has been increasing, with exports of processed food products growing at a CAGR of 15% over the past five years.

Need for skilled labour and better R&D for innovation

The industry suffers from a shortage of skilled labour and a lack of Research and Development (R&D) initiatives. Increased focus on R&D is essential for fostering innovation and developing new products that meet changing consumer preferences. There is shortage of people in the front end of the Food processing sector for jobs.

Industry Growth

• Market Size:India’s food processing sector is expected to reach USD 535 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 11% (Ministry of Food Processing Industries).
• Employment Generation: The food processing industry is the 5th largest sector in India in terms of employment, employing 7.3% of the country’s total workforce (National Skill Development Corporation).
• Startup Ecosystem: India has seen a surge in food tech startups like Swiggy, Zomato, Licious, and Rebel Foods, creating opportunities in technology-driven roles.

Career Paths and Starting Positions:

• Food Technologist: Oversee product development, ensuring quality and safety in food production.
• Sales and Marketing Manager: Develop strategies to promote and sell food products.
• Supply Chain Manager:Oversee the logistics of sourcing, production, and distribution within the food industry.
• Quality Assurance Manager: Implement and monitor quality control procedures to maintain product standards.
• Product/Process Development Scientist:Innovate and improve food products and processing methods.
• Nutritional Therapist: Provide expert advice on diet and nutrition, developing health-oriented food products.
• Regulatory Affairs Officer:Ensure compliance with food industry regulations and standards.
• Research Scientist:Conduct research to enhance food quality, safety, and processing techniques.

Salary Expectations:

• Entry-Level Positions: Starting salaries for MBA graduates in the food industry typically range from ₹400,000 to ₹1,500,000 per annum, depending on the role and company.
• Mid-Level Positions:With experience, professionals can expect annual salaries between ₹800,000 and ₹2,000,000.
• Senior-Level Positions:Senior roles may offer salaries upwards of ₹2,500,000 per annum.

Top Recruiting Sectors:

• Food Production Firms
• Food Processing Companies
• Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Companies
• Corporate and Retail Agriculture Sectors
• Food Safety and Regulatory Bodies

Multinational Food Processing Companies

• Nestlé
• PepsiCo
• Cargill
• Kraft
• Heinz
• Tyson Foods
• MARS
• Danone, General Mills Inc, Kellogg Company, McCain

These organizations actively seek professionals with advanced qualifications in food technology and business management.

Emerging Trends

• Health and Wellness: Increased demand for functional foods and nutraceuticals.
• Plant-Based and Clean Foods: Accelerated by consumer awareness of sustainability.
• Technology Integration:AI and IoT are being used for precision farming and supply chain optimization.
• Global Demand:Export opportunities are driving jobs in food safety, packaging, and logistics.

Emerging Trends

• Food safety knowledge (e.g., HACCP, ISO standards).
• Expertise in supply chain technologies (e.g., SAP, ERP).
• Proficiency in data analytics for market research.
• Innovative thinking for product development and sustainability.

Advancement Opportunities:

With experience and demonstrated expertise, professionals can progress to senior management roles, such as Director of Operations, Chief Technology Officer, or Vice President of Product Development, commanding higher salaries and greater responsibilities.