Did you know that scientists help test and design foods that are healthy and taste good? That’s right, those Doritos you ate after school yesterday were created and tested in a lab before they were ever sold to the public. If you prefer to eat a healthier snack such as an apple with peanut butter, a scientist worked on that too. Food scientists research new food sources and products, analyze food to find out about the amount of sugar, fat, vitamins and protein it contains, and investigate alternatives to harmful additives and pesticides that are sometimes used on food. Food scientists can perform research for universities, work for private companies, or work for the government.
Career Preparation:
In high school, make sure your course schedule includes biology, chemistry, and physics. It is important to take math classes every year. Try to take AP or advanced statistics and calculus if possible. In addition, since food is a big business, take a business or marketing class if you are able.
Career Possibilities:
Food scientists can teach and conduct research at universities, study methods to improve the flavor, texture, color or nutritional value of foods at companies like Kraft, or conduct food safety audits for businesses and government.
College Options:
Virginia Tech offers a Food Science Technology major with three different tracks: Science, Food Business, and Food and Health. If learning about foodborne illness and spoiling food sounds interesting to you, check out the Food Microbiology class at Virginia Tech! Many colleges such as the College of William and Mary, Roanoke College, Virginia Commonwealth University and Hampden-Sydney College also offer majors in Chemistry.
Want to know more? Check out these cool resources:
Check out why being a food scientist is a rewarding job.
Find out what happens if you are mean to broccoli.
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