Food Scientist

Holland Code:

Think

Everything in food is science. The only subjective part is when you eat it.

Alton Brown

In A Nutshell

I study and analyze different aspects of food to improve its safety, quality, and taste.

I analyze food to determine its nutritional content, making sure it’s healthy and safe to eat.

I write reports and give ideas to companies on how to make their food healthier without making it more expensive.

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Potential Salary Range

$38,000 - 74,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta

British Columbia

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Newfoundland & Labrador

Nova Scotia

Ontario

PEI

Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Saskwatchewan

I get to mix science and creativity every day. In the lab, I test ingredients, explore new flavours and experiment with ways to make food healthier and safer. Then in the office, I study the data and share results that help improve how our food is made. It’s exciting to know my work helps shape what ends up on people’s plates.

Workplace

Indoor

Job Requirements & Duties

Conduct experiments on ingredients or food products to check safety, nutrition, and quality
Determine the best ways to preserve foods, extend shelf life, and maintain safety based on their chemical properties
Find ways to improve food products by enhancing nutrition, flavour, packaging, and storage
Calculate the nutritional content of foods for labeling and to guide healthy product development
Plan taste tests and sensory evaluations to get feedback on flavour, texture, and overall quality
Prepare clear reports on experiments and make recommendations to improve production, quality, and innovation
Develop new recipes, products, or food solutions that are safe and nutritious

Education & Training

A university degree in food science, food technology, or a related field is usually required. A master’s degree or additional training in agriculture, nutrition, or food innovation can give candidates an advantage.

Job Outlook

Food scientists are consistently needed as farms and food companies seek experts to develop safe, nutritious, and innovative products. Skilled professionals with experience in agriculture and food production have lasting opportunities in the field.

Related School Subjects

Science

Ed. Prof. et Tech.

Career Education

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Nutrition Chemistry Research Experimenting Food Testing Science Safety Development Analysis

Important Skills

Research

I conduct research and investigations about food, using a careful, focused approach to understand how ingredients and processes work.

Problem Solving

I work through challenges in food science patiently, exploring different solutions until I find the right answer.

Detail-Oriented

I pay close attention to details, like subtle changes in taste or smell, because they can make a big difference in food quality.

Interpersonal

I build professional relationships and communicate comfortably with customers, industry experts, and technicians to share knowledge and collaborate effectively.

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The Best Things About This Job Are…

Pays Well

Continuous Learning

Has Business Perks

Working With A Team

Making a Difference in the World

References

AITC Canada

Disclaimer

All career information has been gathered from a variety of sources and compiled to provide a general idea as to what each career could entail. Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is committed to doing our best to ensure the information is current and reliable. However, we will not be liable for the accuracy of the information. Please contact us if you notice errors or would like to provide feedback.