Food can be a livelihood as well as sustenance.
Almost everyone is interested in food. The massive food industry includes a variety of career options for those who want to make a living out of food. These range from growing food to preparing it and even to eating it.
Chef
The first food career that most people think of is chef. This position entails much more than whipping up appetizing dishes. The average chef works odd, long hours. Most chefs are on their feet at least eight hours a shift, lifting heavy pots and preparing ingredients. Although being the head chef at a well-respected restaurant is glamorous, it requires years of "paying your dues." Even the most talented culinary school graduates start off in low-paying, low-level jobs. One secret to succeeding as a chef is to focus on a specific aspect of cooking, such as pastries or a certain regional cuisine.
Organic Farmer
Organic farming is growing worldwide. Organizations such as World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms have helped to organize and train those who would like to manage small organic farms. This work can involve anything from growing fruits and vegetables to raising chickens and pigs. Most organic farmers sell their produce and meat directly to local customers. Organic farming may not be the highest-paying career in food, but it has intangible rewards and is perfect for those who enjoy being self-sufficient.
Food Critic
The position of food critic comes with a reputation. Most food critics work for magazines, newspapers or travel guides, visiting eateries in various locations, sampling menus and registering their opinions. The work is not easy. First, the critic's job is to taste the food and move on, which may be difficult for those who have trouble pushing aside a delicious dish. Second, because blending in as a regular customer is essential, food critics tend to limit their social lives so they are not recognized everywhere they go. Finally, food critics must be articulate and able write engaging reviews in order to succeed.
Competitive Eater
Pie-eating contests have been a staple of state fairs for decades. Only recently, however, has competitive eating become an actual career. The International Federation of Competitive Eating organizes more than 80 eating contests around the world, including Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Pizza Hut P'Zone Chow-lenge. Eaters like Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi have won prizes as high as $20,000, along with worldwide fame.
Tags: food critics, from growing, more than, Organic farming