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Internship Assignment Regional Innovation Team Beverages Europe
Background
The Functional Beverages team is developing a portfolio of new beverage concepts within the areas of e.g. Energy or Hydration. These concepts combine consumer-relevant functionality with scientifically substantiated ingredients and attractive sensory experiences.
The starting point for product development will be the Functional Beverage Ingredient Toolbox. The toolbox provides a broad range of functional ingredients, while leaving sufficient room for the student to explore additional ingredients and innovative solutions where scientifically justified.
Objective
The objective of this internship is to support the development of innovative functional beverage concepts while building a deeper understanding of how functional ingredients influence product stability throughout shelf life.
A key part of the assignment will be identifying, understanding and mitigating ingredient interactions that may negatively affect product quality, functionality, appearance or sensory characteristics over time.
Scope of Work
1. Functional Beverage Product Development
Develop prototype beverages for selected concept platforms by translating concept ideas into practical formulations.
Activities include:
Selection of functional ingredients and dosage levels
Development of bench-top prototypes
Evaluation of technical feasibility
Documentation of formulations and observations
2. Ingredient Interaction and Shelf-Life Stability Assessment
Investigate how functional ingredients interact within beverage systems and how these interactions may impact stability during processing and storage. Examples include:
Protein-mineral interactions
Vitamin degradation pathways
Botanical ingredient stability
Fibre-protein compatibility
pH-related instability mechanisms
Sedimentation, precipitation and haze formation
Colour and flavour deterioration during storage
The goal is not only to identify stability issues, but also to understand the underlying mechanisms and propose practical mitigation strategies.
Deliverables:
Stability risk assessment per concept
Overview of critical ingredient interactions
Better guidance for suitable flavour screening and selection, incl. masking
Recommendations to improve product robustness and shelf-life performance
3. Innovation Challenge
The student is encouraged to proactively identify additional technical challenges or opportunities related to functional beverages and functional ingredients.
Potential areas include:
Emerging ingredients
Novel functionality platforms
Improved stability solutions
New delivery systems
Clean-label formulation strategies
Consumer-relevant technical challenges
The student will define and execute one self-selected exploratory project.
Expected Deliverables
Prototype formulations for selected concepts
Product development report
Ingredient interaction and stability assessment
Shelf-life risk overview and mitigation recommendations
Flavour recommendation report
Final presentation of findings and recommendations
One self-initiated innovation proposal
Desired Profile
BSc or MSc student in Food Technology, Food Innovation, Chemistry or related disciplines
Interest in functional ingredients and beverages
Experimental and analytical mindset
Strong curiosity towards ingredient functionality and stability
Proactive and innovative attitude
Success Criteria
The internship will be successful when the student demonstrates:
Development of technically feasible beverage prototypes
Understanding of stability challenges associated with functional ingredients
Ability to identify and explain ingredient interaction risks
Well-supported flavour recommendations
Independent problem solving and initiative in identifying new opportunities
At Givaudan, you contribute to delightful taste and scent experiences that touch people’s lives.
We value the different perspectives that come from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
Everyone — regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, culture, religion, or any personal circumstances — is warmly welcomed at Givaudan, a place where we all love to be and grow.
Every essence of you enriches our world. Join us in making a difference together.
