New course for packaging sustainability

Honours and foundation degree courses in Sustainable Food Management are being developed for launch next September by the college’s newly appointed Sustainable Food Coordinator, Jenny Ruth.

“The courses have been developed to produce highly employable graduates that have an awareness and understanding of sustainability together with an all round knowledge of the food supply chain​,” Ruth told FoodProductionDaily.com.

Graduates are expected to find employment within the food processing sector, primary production, new product development, technical and quality assurance or retail.

“Whereas most food courses focus on one aspect such as food technology or nutrition, we will offer a holistic approach - introducing students to all aspects of the food supply chain from production, through processing to marketing and retail, while emphasizing the need for an integrative, sustainable approach,​” she added. ​

Supply chain management​

Students will be able to specialize in particular areas of interest, such as supply chain or business management, by choosing various options within the courses.

Increasing public knowledge about food production and packaging topics coupled with a growing awareness of sustainability means there is a key need to address specific issues within the food chain, according to Ruth.

“The food industry needs to adapt to the growing needs of the consumer and with their knowledge of sustainability, our graduates will be in the position to inspire change from within​.”

Food industry ​

Ruth’s role will be to recruit and admit students onto the courses, and to strengthen college links with the food industry through using and building on her contacts throughout the food sector.

Her knowledge and contacts within the industry are based on her experience working at Yoplait Dairy Crest and Rayner Food Group as new product development manager.

“I have a passion for food and look forward to sharing that with students who apply for these sustainability courses​,” said Ruth.

Courses can be studied either full or part time.