Students in Italy interested in agriculture were given the chance to take a closer look at what goes into producing some of their favourite foods, such as jams and sauces. A project funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) allowed them to learn about the scientific processes that take place before a product goes on the shelf.

‘I love chemistry and I really like to carry out qualitative and organoleptic analyses on raw materials,’ says student Filippo Rossi, who particularly enjoys spending time in the lab.

The students were taught using a hands-on method that allowed them to put chemical and biological theory into practice. During 30 hours of practical training, 15 students learned to bake and make jam. As well as exploring specific laboratories at the food farm, those interested in the company’s management software were introduced to the computer lab.

‘During the summer we came back to school to study the functionality of an informatic system of management with students of other schools. I’m very proud of this project I was involved in,’ notes Camilla Bianchi, reflecting on her experience.