Her Story
About BHAVYA
Bhavya Peddigari is a dedicated food scientist specializing in product development within the food industry. With more than four years of experience, including one year at PS Seasonings, she develops dip seasonings, spice seasonings, sauces, and flavors for B2B commercialization, working on projects for national brands as a co-packer. Bhavya earned her first master's degree in food science and nutrition in India, where she received the APJ Abdul Kalam Food Innovation Award, and completed a second master's at the University of Maryland College Park. During her time at UMD, she contributed to a USDA-funded project on community nutrition education for low-income groups as part of her thesis work. She is an active member of the International Food Technologies (IFT). Bhavya attributes her success to never giving up and viewing challenges as opportunities rather than setbacks, drawing inspiration from her mother, a working woman who dared to pursue her career. She advises young women entering the male-dominated industry to show commitment and passion, start now, and remember that women can achieve more than society expects.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with BHAVYA
01What do you attribute your success to?
I never give up on my work. Whenever they say it's not working, then I see that as a challenge, not like my step back, but I see it like why can't it be done? Always wanted to take it as a challenge rather than stress or worry about it.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Dare to dream and definitely you will get the things done for you. Coming to the United States was challenging as the first from my food science undergrad group, but it changed my life and I got this job before graduation.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It's really difficult sometimes for a woman to be in the industry sector because it's still male-dominated. But when you dare to, when you have that commitment, when you have that passion, people around you will definitely get influenced and you can do wonders. It's just that you have to start now. Even if you are scared, show up. Women can do more than what society thinks.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is bringing ideas to life in meetings with experienced people who may not take freshers seriously. The greatest opportunity is that the food industry always grows as long as the human race exists, with constant demand for new flavors and tastes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Patience and commitment towards what you do, and the dedication that you put in there, and the passion for your subject would definitely be really important because it's the one that changes everything.
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