Many different companies and organizations related to the fields of food science and nutrition accept interns regularly throughout the year. However, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are the largest providers of food science and nutritionist internships abroad. NGOs have an especially high demand for nutrition and food science interns because of the type of services they offer. NGO placements generally cover a range of tasks and activities, from actual meal preparation to engaging with local communities and teaching food education.
Education. Many individuals living in developing countries have limited knowledge of nutrition and the advantages and disadvantages of eating different foods. For this reason, interns are needed to work within the realm of public health, in order to provide nutrition education and help locals understand the impact of food choices. Through this work, interns will be able to act as a point of contact for local populations directly in the field and help improve long-term nutrition and health understanding in specific communities.
Preparation. Being able to adequately and accurately prepare nutritious meals is an important skill all nutritionists should have. Food science internships abroad in meal preparation will allow interns to learn the intricate preparation techniques of a new culture and country, therefore introducing them to the country’s perspective on food and giving them the chance to compare practices with their home country. Those who intern in food preparation can also expect to work in public policy as well, assisting with food related policies, like health codes, sanitation standards, and other good business practices.
Distribution. As a specific area of food science and nutrition, food distribution is vital to the field, since it determines the overall access to food and nutritious meals that any population has. Interns may find themselves helping businesses, organizations, and nonprofits figure out a distribution schedule, effective costs, or better communicate with other likeminded organizations in order to collaborate. One of the most common forms of nutrition internships abroad are those with nonprofits, which help underdeveloped communities who may not have access to healthy food sources or the financial means to purchase nutritious food.
Structure & Requirements. Nutrition internships abroad can be as short as one week or as long as one year, or more. However, most organizations prefer that interns stay for at least one month, and usually more, so both the organization and the intern can benefit most greatly from the internship. Interns typically have the choice to work full or part time, and some interns will be able to divide their time between expanding their knowledge in the field and sharing their knowledge with others (ex. shadowing a nutritionist and then conducting a tutorial in a local community). While it is very important to be well versed in the field for most food science and nutrition internships abroad, not all internships require an academic background in the field. However, the more you do know, the more you will be able to assist.
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