From Classroom to Career: My Journey in Food Safety and Quality Assurance

Last Updated on September 26, 2024

In an era where food safety and quality are paramount, my educational and professional journey has been driven by a strong dedication to advancing biotechnology and ensuring food safety. From earning a bachelor’s degree to pursuing a postgraduate diploma in Food Safety and Quality Assurance at Lambton College my quest for knowledge and skill development has been fulfilling and enriching.

Academic Achievements: Laying the Foundation

My academic path began with a bachelor’s in biotechnology, where I not only secured a 95% overall but also achieved the coveted 1st position at my college level. This program provided me with an extensive understanding of the biological and chemical principles essential for a successful career in the food industry.

Relevant Coursework

Throughout my undergraduate studies, I took several key courses that became the foundation of my expertise. Each course played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of the food industry and preparing me for real-world applications:

• Food Safety and Quality Assurance: Equipped me with comprehensive knowledge of protocols to keep food safe.
• Food Chemistry and Microbiology: Taught me to analyze biochemical interactions and microbial effects on food safety.
• Food Processing and Technology: Showed me how raw ingredients are transformed into consumable products while maintaining quality.
• Quality Management Systems: Introduced me to industry-standard frameworks that ensure consistency and quality in food production.
• Food Quality Control and Inspection Techniques: Gave me the skills to master evaluation procedures and uphold rigorous quality standards.

These courses enhanced my theoretical knowledge and provided practical insights, helping me develop critical skills essential for success in food safety.

Research Skills: The Backbone of My Expertise

The practical application of my education is evident in my proficiency in various quality control and assurance techniques. I possess a strong understanding of the following:

• Sensory evaluation and product testing
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, including HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) and GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices)
• Experimental design coupled with data collection and analysis methodologies

Furthermore, my experience in laboratory techniques such as PCR, microscopy, and chromatography has enabled me to efficiently troubleshoot and refine experimental procedures.

Professional Experience: Bridging Theory and Practice

My hands-on experience began as a Quality Control Intern at Agilent Technologies in Chandigarh, India. There, I monitored and enforced quality control procedures, conducted routine inspections, and collaborated with cross-functional teams to address quality issues. More importantly, I played a vital role in conducting sensory evaluations and implementing food safety guidelines, ensuring the products met stringent industry standards.

Following this enriching experience, I worked as a Food Production Assistant at Deloitte in Chandigarh. My responsibilities included preparing raw materials, overseeing kitchen operations, and conducting quality checks on finished products. The opportunity to work in a high-paced environment allowed me to sharpen my skills further.

Awards and Recognition: A Testament to Dedication

My journey has been marked by several awards, including:

• Young Scientist Award for Excellence in Science Research at the college level
• Best Presentation Award at the Deloitte Conference for my research findings
• Recognition from faculty and peers for outstanding performance in multiple research projects
• Award along with scholarship for excellence in studies at Lambton College

These recognitions are not merely certificates but reflect my unwavering commitment to advancing my knowledge and contributing meaningfully to the field.

Research Presentations: Communicating Insights

Beyond my academic and professional achievements, I have had the privilege to present my research findings at various university seminars and scientific conferences.

Looking Ahead

As I continue my postgraduate journey at Lambton College with an expected graduation in April 2025, I remain enthusiastic about exploring new dimensions in food safety and quality assurance. I aim to leverage my academic background and hands-on experience to contribute significantly to ensuring that our food systems are safe, efficient, and trustworthy. I look forward to what the future holds and remain committed to fostering food safety and quality in every endeavor I undertake.

If you have any questions, or if there’s anything specific you would like to discuss, feel free to reach out!

About the Author: Simran Walia is a dedicated postgraduate student at Lambton College, pursuing a diploma in Food Safety and Quality Assurance. With practical experience from internships in quality control, she is passionate about ensuring the highest quality standards in the food industry. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new recipes, exploring local cuisine, and practising photography.