June 18, 2020
Food Scientist
Food scientists are particularly important in large-scale farming operations where quality control of export product is particularly important in light of product certification. The job requires a solid grasp of the food and retail regulatory environment.
Food scientists often work in interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with professionals in fields such as biology, chemistry, engineering, and nutrition. The demand for food scientists is high in the food and beverage industry, research institutions, government agencies, and regulatory bodies. The role is dynamic, requiring a strong scientific background, analytical skills, and a keen understanding of industry trends and consumer preferences.
Key tasks:
• Sample aquaculture products.
• Liaise with product quality inspectors.
• Monitor fish processing.
• Research and study new potential products.
Entry requirements/training:
This is a specialised job requiring tertiary-level qualification in food science, available from several South African tertiary institutions.
Career advancement:
Food scientists can migrate to other industrial sectors, particularly retail. They play a crucial role in government monitoring and regulation.
Associated job opportunities:
As a food scientist, there are various job opportunities across different sectors. Here are some associated job titles and potential career paths:
• Food Product Developer or Food Technologist
• Food Safety Scientist
• Nutritionist
• Food Chemist
• Food Process Engineer
