Amity University Hosts Workshop On Food Technology

Amity Institute of Food Technology, Amity University Noida, hosted a five-day hands-on workshop on edible films and coatings for shelf-life extension from July 1st to 5th, 2024. The workshop aimed to understand the properties of these films and coatings, highlight recent developments and provide hands-on experience in preparing and applying them on perishable foods.

The programme involved 25 participants from various Indian institutions, including Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Sangrur, Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar, Shoolini University Himachal Pradesh, Vignan University Guntur Andhra Pradesh, Anand Agriculture University, Guru Jambeshwar University Haryana and Delhi University.

During the five-day workshop Technical Sessions on various topics such as “Biodegradable polymers in food systems: Quality evaluation techniques and requirements”,  “Edible coating: An eco-friendly intervention for preserving quality and enhancing storage life of fruits and vegetables”, “Biopolymer-based composite film and coatings in food packaging applications”, “Innovative packaging for a sustainable future: Biodegradable, edible, active and smart solutions for fruits and vegetables” and “Sustainable developments in biodegradable food packaging for shelf-life extension of food products”, will also be conducted.

Dr Charanjit Singh Riar, Professor, Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Sangrur, Punjab, averred, “Food preservation has evolved from ancient methods like tree barks and earthen pots to modern methods like glass and plastic containers. However, excessive plastic usage has led to environmental degradation. New, eco-friendly edible coatings on food items are being used for effective food preservation. These bioactive substances extend shelf-life and are safe for the environment, making them a valuable solution for preserving food.”

Dr Shruti Sethi (Food Science & Post Harvest Technology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, said, “Through this workshop, participants will get hands-on experience also apart from theoretical knowledge which will be very beneficial for them. They must share their experiences and utilize this opportunity to the fullest.”

Dr Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor Amity University Uttar Pradesh stated, “Amity University conducts various training programmes and workshops from time to time to provide knowledge and hands-on experience to the young researchers which is helpful for them in carrying out their research.”

Dr V K Modi, Head, Amity Institute of Food Technology, said, “The workshop will provide insight into the concept, properties and preparation technologies for edible films and coatings from carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and composites.”