The production and distribution of food, including agriculture, fisheries and related services, is the largest and most important economic activity in the world. The health and welfare of people everywhere depends on good agricultural yields and on the reliable storage, successful processing and safe handling of all types of food. All of these activities, and many others, create a demand for well-qualified and experienced specialists who can play their parts in the complex and increasingly sophisticated food supply system.

What Qualifications do I need to study Food Science & Technology?

Food Science & Technology are science based, so a good grounding in science subjects is the best preparation. GCSEs, A' levels, GNVQs or NVQ's can all provide an appropriate starting point, while in some instances mature students can make good with relevant experience some of the shortfall in their qualifications. In these days of multi-national companies and world wide trading, an additional language can be a useful bonus.

A levels

Most courses in food science and technology have a minimum requirement for two A levels (or equivalent AS levels) in science subjects chosen from chemistry, physics, food technology, biological science and mathematics. Home economics is also accepted for some courses as well as computer science, economics, geology and zoology.

BTECS

You can study for BTEC in science (food science and food technology) at National and Higher National levels (Certificates & Diplomas) at schools and colleges all over the UK. A BTEC National qualification is recognised by colleges and universities to be equivalent to A levels.

Biotechnology

This involves some of the oldest food production techniques known to man. Fermented products like salami, yoghurt, cheese, olives and many other intriguing ethnic foods all owe their unique properties to biotechnology. Biotechnologists need a sound knowledge of biochemistry, microbiology and process engineering and use their expertise in areas as diverse as brewing, antibiotic production, flavour synthesis and waste management systems.

Civil Service

The Civil Service provides major career opportunities for food scientists and technologists. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) relies on experts in the food industry, food research and academic establishments to assist it in drawing up appropriate food legislation. FSA also has divisions, which monitor the food we eat for pollutants of all kinds, pesticides, metals and concern themselves with the safe development of novel foods, genetically modified foods and the irradiation of foods.