Member Spotlight: Meet Kaustuv Bhattacharya
Member Spotlight is a regular INFORM magazine column that features members who play critical roles in AOCS.
AOCS Divisions are forums for sharing technical information while offering networking and mentorship for early career professionals. The Edible Applications Technology Division comprises specialists in the processing and utilization of lipids industry whose primary focus is on food applications.
This issue of INFORM presents an interview with Kaustuv Bhattacharya, the Chair of the Edible Applications Technology division. Bhattacharya has served as division chair for two years and previously as vice chair from 2018 to 2021.
He currently works as a principal designer at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) in Braband, Denmark.
What was your path to your current position
within IFF?
I joined L-Danisco in 2006 as a temporary assistant application specialist and then worked my way up to become the principal application specialist which I have held since 2015. As principal designer, I work mostly with emulsifiers, hydrocolloids, flavors in emulsions, and structuring of various food products using principles of fat crystallization.
Half of my job is know-how, and the other half is show-how. This combination helps me to interact with our stakeholders, both internal and external. I have an inquisitive mind and always try to understand the explanations behind observations.
I thrive on acquiring and sharing knowledge with the people around me, motivating them and creating value in the process.
What do you find compelling or exciting about your role there?
The most exciting part of the job is my global role which allows me to interact daily with outstanding folks in the form of colleagues, customers, peers from all parts of the planet. I have been to 50 countries during my 200 plus travels, worked with people from probably another 50, and there is no limit to learning and knowledge sharing.
I try to connect with people everywhere I am, and once you get to know the people,
work becomes exciting, motivating, and fun.
How does AOCS support your professional goals?
AOCS provides an invaluable platform for networking and knowledge sharing with experts and professionals from both academia and industry.
The annual meetings are fantastic getaways from daily work to meet people who are equally passionate about food science and keen on discussing
new ideas.
How does the Edible Applications Technology division align with your interests and those of your company? What do you bring back to your company as an added value based on your participation?
The division keeps me updated with the advances in both fundamental and application science and
technology behind the food industry. I also get to see the newer and upcoming global trends behind food design.
As a leading supplier of numerous food ingredients and flavors, we at IFF benefit from such learnings about the dynamic nature of the food industry.
What are the division’s goals or how will the division serve the members this coming year?
One of the primary goals of the division I always to put together modern and relevant technical sessions
for annual meetings. Thanks to our Vice-Chair Filip Van Bockstaele, it is well under construction for 2024.
We will also arrange for at least one webinar and one mixer. I am also excited about the new connection with the Student Common Interest Group.
Do you have any recommendations or advice for people early in their careers or students who are interested in Edible Applications Technology?
The Edible Applications Technology division is very unique, encompassing a broad spectrum of food applications which appeals to a diverse group of members. Being a member of the division will surely get one connected to a vast network of academic and industry researchers.
Our members make the division, and we from the leadership team sincerely encourage everybody to reach out to us with all your ideas and expectations. And finally, my sincere thanks to all AOCS staff for making everything happen. Eat well!
