FDSN Spring 2024 Seminar Series: Pratistha Banerjee

The Department of Food Science and Nutrition presents its spring 2024 seminar series featuring guest speaker Pratistha Banerjee, product manager for Darigold, who will give a presentation on “Product Development and Innovation in Dairy.” This seminar will take place on Thursday, April 11, from 12:45–1:45 p.m. over Zoom.

Abstract

Innovation is at the heart of dairy product development, driving the industry forward to meet the evolving needs and preferences of consumers. From health-focused options to sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology, dairy companies are continuously striving to deliver products that excite, nourish, and inspire. This includes developing lactose-free options, plant-based alternatives, and novel flavor combinations to cater to evolving tastes. Innovation also extends to sustainable practices, with a focus on reducing environmental impact throughout the supply chain. Let’s dive into a session exploring this world of dairy new product development and learning more about how it is impacting today’s dynamic scenario.

Bio

A foodie and a curious cat by nature, Pratistha Banerjee is a product manager for Darigold, a northwest-based dairy cooperative headquartered in Seattle, Washington. With experience working for companies such as the IFFCO Group in Dubai, UAE, and IFFCO Products in New York, she has been focused on food product development, innovation techniques, and strategies for bakery mixes, ingredients, and dairy-based products.

Having graduated with an M.S. in Food Science from Illinois Tech in 2019, she is a major advocate for women in STEM, minimizing food waste, and inclusion in community. Seeking major inspiration from Willy Wonka—she chose to pursue a career in food and hopes to be as good as him someday!

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