The word 'gastronomy' is derived from the Greek word 'gastro’, meaning ‘stomach’ and 'nomos’, meaning ‘laws’ or ‘knowledge’. Gastronomy is thus defined as 'the art or science of good eating’. It involves not only the ritual of food consumption but understanding and appreciating the many avenues of food production and cooking. It includes discovering, tasting, experiencing, researching and remembering all the aspects that make food worth eating. Gastronomy is also about knowing and understanding what you eat. This course will introduce gastronomic concepts and their applications in food preparations, culinary arts and food enjoyment. Post-COVID, there has been a change in our food habits as concern for health and hygiene grows. Gain insight into the adaptations and precautions the food industry should take to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Almost all food is processed in some form before it is consumed. We will show you the different methods employed by the food industry in the thermal processing of food and explain the underlying science. We will walk through the concepts of blanching, pasteurisation and sterilisation of food and the technical processing of canned food. Animal protein from meat and fish forms an essential part of our diet. Explore the different preservation techniques and how to process raw meat from beef, poultry or fish. We will also teach you how to cook them to be appealing, tasty and healthy and will help you avoid food hazards. Research the different types of food hazards caused by physical or chemical contaminants and allergens and how to prevent them. Understand how to effectively respond to consumer interest in health, wellness and nutritious foods and develop your culinary creativity.

Gastronomy is a booming career choice as there is a growing demand for processed but healthy foods and ready-to-eat meals. One of the main advantages of studying gastronomy is that you can always increase your knowledge about different cultures, recipes and new ways of cooking. It encourages people to eat healthily while bringing different cultures together. With a basic understanding of gastronomy, you can identify food allergens that may affect some diners and ensure that all of your meals are free of pollutants and infections. This course is not only for aspiring students but for anyone wanting to know what they are eating. Also, to be a true gastronome, you don't have to work in the food industry. Simply knowing and enjoying food and appreciating cuisine will also help build up your skills as a connoisseur. So take this course and start learning from the best!