Working in food science can expose you to cutting-edge technologies and advances, such as biotechnology, that address the problems of food supply and malnutrition. Consumers and government agencies, such as the military and NASA, are demanding new processes for developing and packaging food. If you become a food scientist, there are literally thousands of different jobs available to you. It opens up many opportunities for you, such as in quality control, research and development, manufacturing or teaching.
An advantage of choosing a food science major is the ability to pursue careers in a field that requires this type of education. There are a number of positions, such as jobs in food product development, that require a degree in this subject. Food is always in demand; careers working in the food development and research industry are still popular and available. Studying a food science major makes these types of opportunities available, especially when combined with a minor focus on a field such as business or marketing.
I mean, I recently heard about a group that was researching the manufacture of edible wrapping paper for food, which is basically food science and I think it's great. Food science is used in research centers, in the federal government, and in groups that are part of private industry, such as food manufacturing or packaging companies. Food companies are always hiring and creating jobs, and you can find countless jobs and careers as a food scientist. Choosing a food science major can open up some career opportunities that may be in high demand, but it can be a difficult path to follow.
There is also a relatively low number of people pursuing a specialization in food science, making it a field in which there is less competition than in other industries. For the past 8 years, graduating seniors ranked the Department of Food Science first (7 years) or second (3 years) in the University in graduate satisfaction. However, this can also be a disadvantage, as these classes are difficult to pass and many students may find that focusing on mathematics makes another career more attractive. Many careers in food science require a higher-level degree, such as a doctorate, especially for people interested in working in research or as food chemists.
As a food scientist, you could work on developing new food sources, improving food safety and nutrition, or enforcing government regulations designed to keep food healthy and hygienic. Many careers in food science often require graduate studies, culminating in a master's degree or doctorate, and these programs require many years to complete. As a food scientist, you may have to review food samples every day, and if you're a food lover, you're likely to eat three times as much as you're supposed to. You'll discover new flavors and food combinations and enjoy creating new products, testing their quality and researching.
Labs are included in higher-level classes that provide hands-on experience with the latest food processing techniques and technologies. If you work, for example, in a food supply chain, you will always have numerous job opportunities at your fingertips.
