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Business Internship - Food Sensory Science

Date:  21 May 2025
Country:  Netherlands
Function:  Innovation, Quality & Food Safety
Sub-Function:  Innovation

Are you passionate about the science of taste, smell, and texture? Do you want to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic corporate environment? Join us as a Food Sensory Science Intern and embark on a journey to explore the fascinating world of sensory technology in the food ingredients industry!

At ofi, we work every day to provide our customers with the best ingredients to produce delicious chocolate bars, beverages, marinades, sauces, biscuits, snacks and many more.

Our sensory technologists play a crucial role in developing and enhancing the flavors, aromas, and textures of our products. They work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure our ingredients meet the highest standards of quality and consumer satisfaction.
 

The Internship

At ofi, we recognize the critical importance of employing globally aligned sensory methods to ensure consistency and quality across our products. During this internship, you will be working side by side  with our Regional , assisting on the different projects and training sessions.  
During your internship you will be

  • Preparing training materials (samples, training materials, training locations)   
  • Collaborate on various projects

- preparing materials for the sensory panels
- preparation for training
- gathering and analyzing test results

As a special project, you will be assisting in developing a comprehensive sensory reference library for panel training to use locally and globally.
Key tasks:

  • Explore and propose innovative ideas for building the reference library.
  • Utilize existing information to create a structured reference library.
  • Make chocolate references for sensory evaluation.
  • Ensure samples meet the required standards for panel training.
  • Validate the references and ensure their accuracy and relevance with the sensory panel.
  • Prepare a comprehensive instruction box containing all necessary materials and guidelines.

What to Expect

  • Hands-On Learning: organize sessions for sensory panels, create questionnaires, conduct taste tests and analyze basic sensory data to support product development
  • Gain practical experience: Work alongside experienced sensory technologists to learn the techniques and methodologies used in sensory evaluation, as well as panel leader skills.
  • Understanding of the Corporate Sensory role: Discover how sensory science influences product development, quality control and consumer research in a corporate setting.
  • Impactful Projects: Contribute to real product development projects.
  • Innovative Environment: Be part of a team that values creativity and innovation, where your ideas and contributions are encouraged.
  • Collaborate across departments: Engage with professionals from various departments, including R&D, marketing, and quality assurance, to gain a holistic understanding of the industry.

Your Successfactors

This internship provides an excellent foundation for students aspiring to build a career in Food, Product Development and Sensory Science.

  • You are currently enrolled in a Dutch educational institution. 
  • You are pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Food Innovation, Food Technology, International Food & Agribusiness, Food Business or a related field.
  • You have a strong interest in sensory science and product development in the food industry.
  • You have an analytical mindset with attention to detail.
  • You'll be working in an International environment. Fluency in English is necessary. Any additional languages are a plus.
  • You are willing and able to work in our offices in Amsterdam, overseeing the city skyline.
     

What you'll gain

  •  Competitive Internship Allowance: We believe in rewarding talent. 
  • Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced professionals who are passionate about sensory science. 
  • Networking opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and fellow interns, expanding your professional network.
  • Teamwork: Develop communication skills by collaborating with cross-functional teams on various projects.
  • Developing your professionals skills: Enhance your communication, analytical and teamwork skills through real projects and tasks.

 

If your are eager to dive into the world of sensory technology and make a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you! Hit the Apply button to take the first step.

Join us, and be part of a team that is making it real through sensory innovation!

Curious, but not ready to apply yet? Feel free to contact us. Reach out to Wendy.Miltenburg@ofi.com, Talent Acquisition Manager for all your questions.

ofi is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, nationality, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants are requested to complete all required steps in the application process including providing a resume/CV in order to be considered for open roles.

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