Food scientists and technologists are responsible for developing safe and nutritious food and beverage products. They may start their career by doing advanced food technologist learning and then progress to technical professional-grade learning in the food industry. Food scientists typically earn salaries that are competitive with other science and engineering degrees, and many have found a job or gained admission to graduate school shortly after graduating. To learn more about becoming a food scientist, visit the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
You can determine if you're being paid fairly as a food scientist by comparing your salary to the average salary in the state where you live. In addition to developing food products, food scientists also create complex marketing campaigns for food brands. This includes product packaging, TV ads, online ads, social media campaigns, and more. Before launching a new product to the market, food companies must go through several stages of research, such as testing soil samples and researching new cultivation methods. Food scientists also create recipes that shoppers can use at home to transform packaged foods into delicious meals and desserts.
One of the most interesting fields of study within the discipline of food science is that of food flavors. Food science is an academic field that requires rigorous study in topics such as mathematics, chemistry, microbiology and more. A food microbiologist is one of the most advanced positions in the field of food science, as they study how microorganisms affect food, causing it to spoil and affect the supply chain. Recipe developers work for companies that make products such as boxed cake mixes and other precooked foods. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that job opportunities for agricultural and food science graduates are growing due to a growing population that continually needs safe and nutritious food options.
Despite their important work, food and restaurant inspectors don't earn as much as some other food science professionals. Moira McGrath, president of OPUS International, an executive search firm focused on food science based in Deerfield Beach, Florida, notes that salaries for food scientists vary depending on their experience level and location. Food scientists at the lower end of that spectrum may earn around $50,000 per year while those at the higher end may make up to $150,000 per year.
