UQ takes food science to schools

A novel University of Queensland program will address a shortage of food science graduates coming into the jobs market.

A series of practical food science experiments has been devised for presentation to groups of high school students, and an explanatory brochure produced for chemistry teachers.

The experiments fit the senior chemistry syllabus and can be delivered by UQ lecturers either in the school or at the University’s St Lucia laboratories.

School of Land and Food Sciences lecturer in chemistry Bruce D’Arcy said employment prospects were good for students graduating with UQ degrees in food science and nutrition or in food technology.

“Graduate positions are quite well-paid and career paths are good in the food industry,” Dr D’Arcy said.

“We get a steady stream of prospective employers looking for students, and food technology graduates are in particular demand.”

Dr D’Arcy said food processing was the largest manufacturing industry in Australia. There were good employment growth opportunities as consumers demanded high quality, safe and nutritious food.

UQ graduates are involved in a range of careers including product management, quality assurance, technical sales, consultancy and teaching. Others undertake research and development to produce new and better products.

The series of experiments aims to alert school students to just some of the food science job possibilities. These range from chemical analysis of foods for vitamin content to modified atmosphere food packaging.

Managing Director of Brisbane-based company Food Spectrum Peter Lancaster said the UQ initiative to interest students in food science was welcome.

“We are concerned about the lack of students coming through university programs. The food industry needs a steady stream of qualified graduates,” said Mr Lancaster, who is a member of the Queensland Food Industry Council.

“We are keen to work with universities and offer work experience to encourage students seeking careers in the food industry.”

Mr Lancaster said Food Spectrum manufactured food ingredients for marketing world-wide.

Media: For further information contact Dr Bruce D’Arcy (telephone 3346 9190) or Anthony Smith (telephone 0409 265 587).