Scientometric-based Knowledge Map of Food Science and Technology Research in India

Abstract

The study aims to explore domain specific knowledge map in the area of Food Science and Technology (FST) using scientometric tools and techniques. The study was based on the data extracted from Scopus in this area for the period 2011–2020. Global research output shows a highly skewed distribution with research concentrated in a few countries. The top two countries China and USA accounts for almost 25% of the global research output; India with 3.44% of output is ranked at 7th position globally. Indian papers are not making significant impact globally as seen through citations. One interesting characteristic of Indian research activity is high co-authorship. Highly cited Indian papers exhibit high degree of international collaboration underscoring that international collaboration is a significant factor in making global impact. The Indian research activity is also highly skewed in terms of institutions and authors involved. Most of the papers are concentrated in a few journals. The co-word analysis of highly cited papers based on keywords helps to identify topics which have high contemporary relevance. Antioxidant effects of plant foods, dietary health benefits, food processing, food safety and security, food bioactive compounds, malnutrition, functional foods were areas addressed prominently in the highly cited papers. The study is thus able to bring different facets of research activity in this area in India situating it within the global context.