Principal interests and purpose

Terms of reference of Emerging Technologies Panel shall be as noted in the general recommended terms of reference and constitution of the Panels.

To provide a forum for discussion, information exchange, research direction and management of topics relating to all emerging methods of processing and preserving foods, bearing in mind that some research in emerging preservation methods involving traditional heating freezing and chilled foods may be overseen by other relevant Technical Advisory Panels.

To consider, suggest and monitor projects where research in novel processing, ingredients, and preservation will lead to improvements in food quality, safety and processing efficiency.

Areas of specific interest will be as identified in the keywords list for the RA membership subscription funded project "New Technologies for food manufacturing and sustainable resource management". These keywords, which will be reviewed on at least a 3 yearly basis, can be grouped into the following themes:

• Novel preservation methods (e.g. high pressure and pulsed electric field processing)
• Novel packaging systems (e.g. active and intelligent packaging)
• Novel unit operations (e.g. novel baking, novel cutting)
• Smart manufacturing (e.g. robotics and automation)
• Waste handling (e.g. novel effluent control, adding value to waste materials)
• Novel biotechnology (e.g. novel fermentation, functional foods, neutraceuticals)
• Any legislation which would impact on novel food processing
• Sustainable food manufacturing