A career in food science and technology is a fascinating field combining various disciplines such as Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Engineering. One of the top needs in the world today is food. As a result, the food science and technology industry is growing continually.

Food scientists are trained to carry out responsibilities to ensure that the food we eat is scientifically confirmed for consumption. This career path requires good knowledge and expertise as they deal with things humans consume.

I will guide you through the steps required to venture into a career in food science and technology.

Step to Start a Career in Food Science and Technology

1. Obtain an O’level Certificate:

   Firstly, only students with science courses can apply to study food science and technology at the University. You must have at least credits in subjects such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, English and Biology. Additionally, you should include subjects such as Food and Nutrition and Agricultural Science.

2. Register and write the JAMB exam:

   You should register and write subjects such as Use of English, Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology. You should also score at least 200 and above to stand a better chance of getting admission.

3. Pursue a Bachelor’s degree:

   You should apply to an accredited University to study food science and technology. It course usually takes five years to complete. You will obtain a Bachelor’s degree, giving you a headstart in your career pursuit.

4. Acquire Practical Experiences:

   In other to gain real-world experiences, you should apply for internships and entry-level roles. This will improve your knowledge of Food Science and add to your resume.

5. Choose an Area of Specialisation:

   It is important that you also have an area of specialisation to become an expert in. In addition to the general knowledge you have in food science, you create a niche where you become an expert in. This will give you a unique identity in the field and also a high income when your services are needed.

6. Join a Professional Association:

   Networking with professionals in this field can also be a factor for career growth. You register and become a member of associations such as the Nigerian Institute of Food Science and Technology (NIFST) and the International Academy of Food Science and Technology (IAFoST).

7. Gain effective Laboratory Skills:

   You should focus on getting acquainted with laboratory standards and procedures. In the career journey, you will carry out more activities in the laboratory and your competence in this can add to your career growth.

Areas of Specialisation in Food Science and Technology

1. Food Chemistry: The experts in this sector are responsible for analysing methods of cooking, freezing and packaging. They ensure that the processes involved are safe and of a good standard.
2. Food Quality/Microbiologists: Food microbiologists play a vital role in ensuring that food is safe for consumption. They carry out laboratory procedures to ensure that food is free from microorganisms.
3. Food Engineering: They develop systems and designs for effective processing, packaging and storing of food.
4. Sensory Science: These professionals are in charge of finding out how customers react to a product and using the information they get to improve the product. They also ensure that the foods customers eat are appealing.
5. Product Development: A food scientist in this field focuses on creating high-quality products that will satisfy the needs of the customers.
6. Food Marketing/Sales: These professionals develop strategies to improve the sales of the food products through advertising, customer relationships, developing new products and raising awareness.

Universities that offer Food Science and Technology

1. Bayero University, Kano
2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
3. Rivers State University of Science and Technology
4. Michael Okpara University of Agriculture
5. University of Maiduguri
6. Obafemi Awolowo University
7. Abia State University
8. University of Technology, Ota
9. Kwara State University
10. University of Uyo
11. Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi
12. Madonna University, Rivers State
13. Imo State University
14. University of Portharcourt
15. Bowen University, Iwo
16. Ebonyi State University
17. Federal University of Technology, Owerri
18. Igbinedion University
19. University of Ibadan
20. Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
21. University of Ilorin
22. Lagos State University of Science and Technology

Places to Work as a Food Scientist in Nigeria

1. Research Institutes
2. Hotels
3. Government/ Private Agencies
4. Refineries
5. Health Organizations
6. Agro-allied Industries
7. Food Beverage Industries
8. Universities

Salary of Food Scientists

The average salary of a food scientist in Nigeria is dependent on the level of experience and the industry being worked under. It ranges from N50,000 to N300,000 monthly.

In Conclusion, embarking on a career in food science and technology can come with a lot of perks and make a great career choice. Because of the importance of the role food scientist plays, there is always the availability of jobs in different sectors. However, you have to be well knowledgeable to achieve this, Additionally, a career in food science and technology demands consistency, focus and building essential skills to thrive in this career.

Good luck.

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