The colder weather has us wanting to eat soups, stews, and everything roasted! While the majority of us gravitate toward foods that look, smell, and taste good, there’s a select group who dive deeper in the biological and chemical makeups of all types of consumables: food science students! Phi Tau Sigma celebrates the students who excel in food science and technology.

Founded in 1953 at The University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Phi Tau Sigma was formed to “enhance professionalism in food science.” The organization seeks to:

• Recognize and honor professional achievements of Food Scientists and Technologists
• Encourage the application of fundamental scientific principles to Food Science and Technology in each of its branches
• Stimulate the exchange of scientific knowledge through meetings, lectures, and publications
• Establish and maintain a network of like-minded professionals
• Promote exclusively charitable, scientific, literary, and educational programs

According to their website, Phi Tau Sigma’s mission is “to raise the stature and recognize scholarly achievements of the Food Science and Technology profession. The mission is achieved by encouraging outstanding achievements by Food Science students and professionals, and by enhancing professionals among the Food Science profession through the member network.” 

Phi Tau Sigma has two levels of membership: Associate and Member. In order to be eligible for Associate membership, students must be actively pursuing a degree in Food Science and have a minimum of a 3.5 GPA. Full Members must be nominated and have a minimum of 5 years experience in a professional setting in a position directly related to food science and technology. Honors, recognitions, and achievements are taken into account when accepting new members.

The organization currently has over 40 chapters and 1185 members. You’ll recognize them on graduation day by their dark red/maroon and gold honor cords.

Are you a member of Phi Tau Sigma or a food chemical enthusiast? Let us know in the comments!

Cover photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash