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About Food Science

It doesn’t get much better
than being paid to eat your
own science experiments!

Where Science Meets Food

Have you ever wondered how your favorite ice cream was prototyped and developed? Or why your delightful sliced apple turns brown before it becomes your afternoon snack? If so, BYU’s Food Science program may be the major for you! We love all things FOOD! “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” – George Bernard Shaw (1903)

Food Science is the multidisciplinary study of food. It’s DELICIOUS SCIENCE and BYU’s Food Scientists are creating the future of food, globally. Food scientists develop products to fuel growth, life and the brands you love. We affectionately refer to ourselves as BYU’s “food nerds” and “foodies."

With fewer farmers feeding an increasing percentage of the world's population, food must be properly preserved and packaged for consumption at a later time and often at a distant location. Food scientists are involved in all aspects of this process, from the point of animal and crop production to the moment of truth...consumption. They apply their expertise to develop the safe, nutritious, affordable, diverse and sustainable foods and innovative packaging on display at your local supermarket shelves today.

The Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science offers two tracks in the Food Science program: Food Science Technical Track and Food Industry Management Track. The requirements are described in the University Undergraduate Catalog. For help in declaring Food Science as your major, or help with planning your schedule, please contact:

Dr. Laura Jefferies

Food Science Undergraduate Advisor
Phone: (801)422-9290
Room: S133 ESC

Every five years the Food Science program at Brigham Young is evaluated through a self-study and by internal and external reviewers. The Food Science program is also reviewed every five years for approval by the Institute of Food Technologists. At the completion of the Food Science Program, students will:

  1. Possess a fundamental knowledge of Food Science and the skills needed for entry level employment within the food industry or for transition to a graduate or professional program of study.
  2. Be prepared with the skills and desire for lifelong learning, providing for personal and professional growth, and service to their family, community, nation, and world.
  3. Be committed to ethical and moral conduct in their personal and professional activities.

Food Science Major