How much does a food scientist make?

In the U.S., experience, advanced study, useful certification, and specialized or more responsible work can affect a food scientist’s pay. Pay also differs by employer or industry and by location.

Use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and other sciences to study the principles underlying the processing and deterioration of foods; analyze food content to determine levels of vitamins, fat, sugar, and protein; discover new food sources; research ways to make processed foods safe, palatable, and healthful; and apply food science knowledge to determine best ways to process, package, preserve, store, and distribute food.

What's a typical day like?

They weigh ingredients, mix a test batch, and check its taste, texture, color, and nutrients in a lab. Then they record results, check food safety or production, and work with teammates to improve the recipe or package.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s in food science or a related science; study chemistry, biology, food safety, and processing, and seek an internship. A license or certification is usually not required, but research jobs may prefer a master’s or Ph.D.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing.

Pinch your nose while eating a jellybean, and you can tell it’s sweet or sour—but not if it’s peppermint or cherry; smell helps reveal the flavor.