Food scientist

You'll usually need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:

• food science
• food studies
• food technology

Employers may also accept other subjects like chemistry or nutrition.

If you have a degree in an unrelated subject, you could study a postgraduate course like food safety or food quality management.

Experience of working in a food science or food development environment, for example through an industrial placement, may improve your career prospects.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You may be able to do a food technologist advanced apprenticeship then move on to a food industry technical professional degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

You could start as a food technician or lab assistant with a food manufacturer and study for further qualifications while you work.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a food scientist from the Institute of Food Science and Technology.

You'll need:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of biology
• knowledge of food production methods
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As a food scientist, you'll:

• provide accurate nutritional information for food labelling
• investigate ways to keep food fresh, safe and attractive
• find ways to save time and money in food making
• test the safety and quality of food

As a food technologist, you'll:

• blend new ingredients to invent and modify recipes
• conduct experiments and produce sample products
• design production processes and machinery

You could work at a research facility or in a laboratory.

You may need to wear protective clothing.