MSc in Food Science vs. MSc in Food Science and Nutrition: Exploring the Differences and Topics Covered

When considering a postgraduate degree in the field of food science, it’s important to understand the differences between a Master of Science (MSc) in Food Science and an MSc in Food Science and Nutrition. Both degrees offer a comprehensive understanding of food, but they focus on different aspects and can lead to different career paths. This article will explore the differences between these two degrees and the topics covered in each.

MSc in Food Science

An MSc in Food Science is a degree that focuses on the scientific aspects of food. This includes studying the physical, microbiological, and chemical makeup of food. The goal of this degree is to understand how to improve the safety, healthiness, and quality of food.

Topics Covered in MSc in Food Science

• Food Chemistry: This topic covers the chemical composition and properties of food and the changes it undergoes during processing and storage.
• Food Microbiology: This involves studying the microorganisms that inhabit, create, or contaminate food.
• Food Processing and Engineering: This topic focuses on the techniques and equipment used in food production and processing.
• Food Safety and Quality Control: This involves studying the methods used to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the quality of food products.

MSc in Food Science and Nutrition

An MSc in Food Science and Nutrition, on the other hand, combines the scientific study of food with a focus on human nutrition. This degree aims to understand how food affects human health and how to create food products that are not only safe and high-quality but also nutritionally beneficial.

Topics Covered in MSc in Food Science and Nutrition

• Nutritional Science: This topic covers the role of nutrients in human health, including the effects of deficiencies and excesses.
• Dietetics: This involves studying the principles of diet planning and the role of diet in disease prevention and treatment.
• Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: This topic focuses on foods that have a potentially positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition.
• Public Health Nutrition: This involves studying the role of nutrition in population health, including the design and implementation of nutrition policies and programs.

In conclusion, while both degrees involve the study of food, an MSc in Food Science focuses more on the science and technology of food, while an MSc in Food Science and Nutrition incorporates a focus on human nutrition. The choice between the two would depend on your career goals and interests. If you’re more interested in the technical aspects of food production, a degree in Food Science may be more suitable. If you’re interested in the impact of food on human health, a degree in Food Science and Nutrition would be a better fit.