OCTOBER 20258IN MY OPINIONBY KAAN DEMIRYÜREK, R&D DIRECTOR - GLOBAL R&D - SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING, PEPSICOMORE JOBS FOR FOOD SCIENTISTS AND ENGINEERS, BUT ONLY FOR THOSE WITH THE RIGHT SKILLSWhen I studied Food Engineering 25 years ago, it was considered a second-tier field. Few recognized the impact food science and technology could have on the world. But today, food scientists and engineers are at the heart of urgent global transformations.Food is essential. It is a human right. Yet, as I have reiterated over the years, our global food system is unsustainable in meeting the needs of today's population, let alone 2050. This presents an incredible opportunity for food scientists, engineers, and technologists. Sustainability, AI, and food insecurity have elevated our field into one of the fastest-growing, high-impact careers, as highlighted in the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025.If we, as food professionals, do not shape the future of our food system, no one else will. The WEF identifies five macro trends reshaping industries: technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts, and the green transition. With food at the center of these shifts, the need for innovation has never been greater. This translates into enormous growth potential for those willing to equip themselves with the right skills and mindset.Takeaway #1: Rising Demand and Job Opportunities in Food Science and TechnologyThe Future of Jobs Report 2025 estimates that 22% of all jobs will change by 2030, with 170 million new roles created and 92 million displaced--a net gain of 78 million jobs globally. Within this shift, food scientists and technologists are expected to see significant growth, driven by the demand for sustainable food systems, climate adaptation, and digital transformation in food production.Green Transition and Data-Driven Food SystemsThe WEF identifies climate change mitigation as a top transformative force. Food scientists and engineers will be crucial in developing sustainable food and bio-based packaging solutions. Alongside environmental and renewable energy engineers, they rank among the fastest-growing job categories.AI and big data also drive employment growth, with 86% of surveyed employers investing in AI-driven solutions. These technologies optimize processes, increase efficiency, and unlock new market opportunities in food production and supply chains.Why This MattersWith a net increase of 78 million jobs expected globally by 2030, food scientists and engineers must act now to seize these opportunities. Expanding expertise, embracing digital tools, and collaborating across disciplines will be essential.Takeaway #2: Essential Skills for Future Food Scientists and EngineersIn Food for Thought, I propose a mission statement for food professionals:"Continuously advance our food system, based on science and technology, to feed our world's population nutritiously and efficiently while doing better for our planet."Through this article, Kaan Demiryürek, R&D Director ­ Global R&D ­ Sustainable Packaging, explores the evolving landscape of food science and engineering in the face of global challenges. He discusses the rising demand for skilled professionals, the transformative impact of AI, sustainability, and digitalization, and the essential skills future food scientists and engineers must develop to stay ahead. He concludes by emphasizing the need for purpose-driven innovators who view their work as a mission, shaping a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient global food system.Kaan Demiryürek
< Page 7 | Page 9 >