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Is being a food scientist a good fit for you?

Studies food, how it is made and why it goes off, and tests it to make it safe, tasty and long lasting.

What the work involves

  • Inspects food processing areas to check they follow rules on cleanliness, safety and waste.
  • Checks raw ingredients and finished foods for ripeness, safety, quality and nutrition.
  • Studies ways to improve food, such as its flavour, colour, texture and nutrition.
  • Sets food standards, production details and rules for safety, cleanliness and waste.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be curious and hands-on. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onStrong. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousStrong. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeLow. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingLow. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingLow. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingSome. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

What it tends to reward

Compared with other work, this job stands out for:

  • Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.

How much training it needs

Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a food scientist is one of yours.

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