How is "food technology" best defined?

Food technology is best defined as the application of food science to various food practices. This encompasses a broad range of activities and fields, including the development and improvement of food processing, preservation techniques, packaging, and the enhancement of food quality and safety. By integrating knowledge from various scientific disciplines, food technology seeks to innovate and optimize how food is produced, stored, and consumed, ensuring that it meets health standards and consumer preferences.

This definition highlights the essence of food technology as it goes beyond just one aspect of food handling or production, such as preservation or distribution. Rather, it sees food technology as a holistic approach that involves understanding the science behind food and applying that knowledge to real-world practices. This makes it a critical field for ensuring a safe, efficient, and sustainable food supply.