A food technician cooks common household food in a variety of ways and pays special attention to the needs of individual groups such as children, the elderly and patients. Food technicians commonly work in places such as health care facilities and canteens. Food technicians also cook festive food and compile menus according to various special needs. Food technicians receive qualification with a license from the Medical Director of Health.
• preparing menus based on hygiene and nutritional value
• planning shopping and ordering
• receiving ingredients and preparing them for cooking
• altering menus for those who need a special diet
• delivering food from the kitchen
• running canteens, such as in schools
Food technicians need to be well acquainted with the general home cooking, nutrition and food allergies. It is important to be able to read and interpret food ingredient descriptions, calculate nutritional value and adjust food portions to the needs of individuals and groups.
Skills in cutting and handling vegetables, fish and meat are very useful, as well as hygiene and cleanliness. As a food technician, you use various hand tools as well as the most common machines and appliances used in kitchens.
Food technology is a three-year course at the secondary level, including a total of 53 weeks of internship, taught at Menntaskólinn í Kópavogi and Verkmenntaskólinn á Akureyri.
Validation of prior learning has taken place and/or may be available.
