The Department of Fish Processing Technology at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) & KUFOS Business Incubation Centre in collaboration with Kerala Biotechnology Commission, Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (Government of Kerala), sponsored by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, organizes training program on the topic Sea Food Packaging , a specialized Skill Vigyan Student Training Programme.

Objectives of the Skill Vigyan Programme:

·        To equip the students, with all aspects related to fish processing and packaging fishery products development and quality assurance.

·        To develop and strengthen human resource by infusing and imparting knowledge and skill in Fish Products packaging

·        To train students in cutting edge techniques and instruments in packaging technology

·         Training of personnel for self-employment by creating awareness and competency in the fish processing as well as fishery products development

·        Impart hands on training proficiency in Post-Harvest Management, primary processing of fish, value addition, quality control and marketing

Introduction

Packaging is pervasive and essential and plays a significant role in the quality of food products by protecting them from environmental, chemical, and physical challenges. This protection can be as simple as preventing breakage of the product to providing barriers to moisture, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases as well as flavors and aromas. Where perishable products such as fish are concerned, convenience, protection, and attractiveness accorded by the packaging materials used play an important role in the actual sales of the product. Packaging of any product has four major functions: containment, protection, utility, and communication. However, Packaging technology must balance food protection with other issues, including energy and material costs, heightened social and environmental consciousness, and strict regulations on pollutants and municipal solid waste disposal. Department of Fish Processing Technology, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies is offering this programme in collaboration with the Kerala Biotechnology Commission & Kerala State Council for Science Technology & Environment, Govt.of Kerala to impart the knowledge on application of fundamentals of packaging design, materials and instruments used for developing optimal packaging material for a range of food/fish products in food systems.

Programme Structure

·        Module 1 : Introduction to Food Packaging

·        Module 2 : Packaging Trends- Global Scenario

·        Module 3 : Variations in Packaging

·        Module 4 : Food Packaging Materials

·        Module 5 : Instruments used to test the barrier properties of materials

·        Module 6 : Logistical Packaging for Food Marketing Systems

·        Module 7 : Testing and Quality Control

·        Module 8 : Shelf-life evaluation of Packaged Food Products

·        Module 9 : Legislations for seafood packaging & related issues

·        Module 10: Entrepreneurship Development in Food Processing

·        Module 10: Laboratory demonstration, practicals and instrument handling

·        Module 10: Case studies

Eligibility

·        Plus two & above  in Bio Science 

Programme Duration

·        The duration of the programme is 3 months. 

Fellowship

.Monthly student fellowship of Rs.3000/- per student 

Programme Deliverables

·        A comprehensive study material for all the modules in hard copies ensuring the needs of the audience. The accompanying training material is appropriately aligned with the current Industry’s expectations.

·        Assignments for all the programme modules for continuous evaluation and guidance

·        Industry visit, Hands-on training  on packaging advanced testing equipment

·         Assessment and evaluation for all the programme modules to enhance the levels of competencies and skills of the participants leading towards the objective of application in the job

·        All learning and training delivery initiatives shall be conducted in English

Examination & Certification

·    Examination will be conducted by KUFOS .

• The certificates will be jointly issued by the Department of Biotechnology, Govt of India, Food IndustryCapacity Skill Initiative (FICSI), Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Kerala State Council for Science,Technology and Environment

Future career prospects

·        The information, guidance, practical training and off-programme completion certificate will provide the participant with not one but many opportunities in the industry. This would come true in the form of job roles and positions like that of packaging developer, production manager, supply chain operator, Packaging technician, Packaging material Quality technician, Food packaging consultant and many more.