An education in food science covers scientific principles relating to the preparation, consumption, enjoyment, sustainability, and health components of human sustenance. Courses reveal how our physiological makeup applies to cooked food, geographical and cultural influences on food, and rationales behind food preparation. Food Science also covers public health crises, such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes, and their link to unhealthful eating.

Food Science is becoming increasingly important to learn as the consumption of heavily processed foods proliferates, and as culture shifts away from the preparation of food at home. It’s crucial that learners interested in the field gain expertise in the prevention of diet-related diseases, the ability to create meals based on scientific principles, and methodologies related to sustainable food production.

Learners who study Food Science can enjoy career opportunities in gastronomy and health-related fields, such as Chef or Nutritional Therapist, as well as other roles that incorporate food-based skills. The myriad of jobs available include Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Food Toxicologist, Product Development Scientist, Scientific Laboratory Technician, Biochemist, Flavor Chemist, Food Ingredient Sales, Food Inspector, Sensory Scientist, and many other roles related to the study or handling of food.

Online courses are a great way to earn credits, or boost professional development, in Food Science. Courses offered through Coursera include practical discussions about food and the environment in which we consume it, helping learners have the tools they need to distinguish between foods that will support or harm their health. Sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics are covered, and how recent changes in food have greatly altered the way our bodies process it. Wider issues in sustainable manufacturing and bioethics are also covered, as well as how these technologies translate into real-world applications that benefit society and our daily lives.

Assignments in Food Science courses show learners how to appreciate the scientific basis of various recipes, develop their own recipes, recognize the influence of the material world on our five senses, and understand the art of integrating science into cooking and dining. Successful learners will be able to present their rationales for healthy eating, create a long-term weight management plan, practice science-backed cooking methodologies, and examine ways to ensure a growing human population is fed.