One of the most important ways we can help shape the future workforce is through meaningful collaboration with schools and colleges. And that is the objective of Finnebrogue’s Feed Your Future programme.
Sarah Hill is Assistant Technical Manager at Sofina Foods – Finnebrogue site in Downpatrick, and she recently had the pleasure of welcoming students from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) for an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the science, innovation, and expertise that underpin “quality” in food production.
Sarah explains: “Rather than spending the day in a classroom environment, Finnebrogue’s Feed Your Future programme gives students the opportunity to experience first-hand how quality assurance, product development, and manufacturing come together in a real food production setting.”
The visit included:
• Exploring the science behind food quality
• Sensory analysis – observing how sensory panels are conducted, including booths and sample preparation
• An overview of Finnebrogue’s in-house sensory training programme
• A practical duo-trio/triangle test comparing meat and meat-free products, with students recording and analysing results
• An introduction to texture analysis equipment
• Group discussions on how sensory testing supports reformulation and specification compliance
• A viewing gallery tour of our sausage production facilities and a networking over lunch in our Roof Garden restaurant
Sarah continues: “A key focus of this visit was sensory science and the important role it plays in food quality, product development, and consumer experience.
“Students were introduced to how food is assessed using our senses — taste, smell, sight, texture, and even sound — and how this information supports decision-making across the business. They observed how sensory panels are conducted, learned about sample preparation and testing environments, and took part in practical duo-trio and triangle tests comparing meat and meat-free products.
“These hands-on activities help students understand how sensory analysis is used to maintain product consistency, support reformulation projects, and ensure products meet both technical specifications and consumer expectations.
“Feed Your Future is an invaluable experience. It helps students connect classroom learning with the real world; the people, skills, and job roles. And this in turn helps young people make informed decisions about their future career choices in the food industry.”
Finnebrogue’s Feed Your Future Programme has engaged with thousands of young people across Northern Ireland on career pathways within the food industry. The programme was recently recognised at the UK wide Food Manufacture Excellence Awards when Finnebrogue won “Outstanding Community Engagement” Award.
For more information about our award-winning Feed Your Future Programme for schools and colleges, please send an email to: hello@finnebrogue.com.
