Page 23 - FoodFocusThailand No.229 April 2025

SPECIAL INTERVIEW
FoSTAT: A Hub for Collaboration

and Enhancing Personnel Potential

in Food Science and Technology

The Food Science and Technology Association of Thailand (FoSTAT) is dedicated to serving as a central
hub that connects networks among government agencies, the manufacturing sector, associations, and
academic institutions, both domestically and internationally. This collaboration aims to facilitate the exchange
of academic knowledge and enhance the skills of food science professionals. It will serve as a key foundation
for driving Thailand’s food industry forward as it faces various challenges, enabling the industry to overcome
obstacles and seize opportunities for sustainable growth in the global market.

Asst. Prof. Puangpetch Nitayanont, President of the Food Science and Asst. Prof. Puangpetch Nitayanont
Technology Association of Thailand, highlighted the growth potential of emphasized that the key foundation for
Thailand’s food industry. She noted that global demand for Thai food products raising food standards lies in cultivating
is rising, alongside the continued trend of health-conscious consumption. This a “food safety culture.” This requires
presents a significant opportunity for businesses to expand their production continuous communication, training,
lines to meet consumer needs. At the same time, the manufacturing sector evaluation, and inspection. Such efforts are
should integrate technology and artificial intelligence to analyze market trends crucial in preparing professionals to tackle
and scale up production capacity to match the increasing demand. Additionally, emerging challenges that may occur in the
government agencies are actively supporting the industry through innovation future and ensuring that Thailand’s food
funding and financial resources, which are the key factors that enhance industry remains competitive on the global
the competitiveness of Thailand’s food industry on the global stage. stage.
While Thailand’s food industry continues to face volatility in the supply
chain due to climate change, leading to raw material shortages and rising
production costs. Moreover, digital-era manufacturers must also adapt to
rapidly changing consumer behaviors. This shift has resulted in the emergence
of numerous new manufacturers and innovative products. Additionally,
businesses must navigate increasingly stringent health and safety regulations.
Therefore, entrepreneurs must closely monitor industry developments to
respond to these challenges effectively.

Asst. Prof. Puangpetch Nitayanont
President of the Food Science and
Technology Association of Thailand

Elevating Health Foods to High-value Food Products
With the growing trend of health consciousness, FoSTAT recognizes
the importance of systematically supporting the value adding of functional food
products. To achieve this, it has established the Food Innovation & Regulation
Network (FIRN) to drive innovation and product development across the entire
food supply chain from upstream to downstream. FIRN aims to establish
an efficient, accurate, and swift food licensing system while also fostering
workforce development and building expert networks. Additionally, the initiative
focuses on developing programs and tools that enhance a clear understanding
of food regulations, ensuring compliance.
Enhancing the Capabilities of Food Scientists through
Professional Standard
Beyond establishing food system standards, FoSTAT places great emphasis
on developing the capabilities of food science and technology professionals
in Thailand. To support this, the organization has launched the Certified Food
Professional (CFoP) program, which provides training and certification to
ensure that experts in the food industry meet international standards and can
efficiently operate in food manufacturing facilities. The program follows key
industry guidelines, including Good Hygienic Practices (GHP) and Hazard
Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), aligning with government food
regulations.

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