Food Technology

Empowering Minds, Nourishing Communities

two scientists in lab doing research on plants

Combine chemical, biological and physical sciences to sustain and nourish individuals and populations.

What is Food Technology?

Have you ever wondered who designs large food factories or decides what flavours go together? Have you thought about the large and complex global systems that govern our food. That’s where Food Science & Technology comes in.

Combining chemical, biological and physical sciences, Food Scientists are the innovators of all things edible, from creating new products and flavours to learning how to process foods to reduce food and energy waste.

Why study Food Technology?

Food is essential to life – our bodily health and planetary health. Food is also closely tied to hunger and climate change, with many global issues linked to food and food production. Studying Food Technology, you’ll learn about food from all different aspects:

  • Science
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry
  • Nutrition
  • Food toxicology
  • Food safety
  • Food preservation
  • Sustainable food manufacturing.

Why choose UNSW?

We're ranked #1 in Australia for Engineering and Technology and 31st globally according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024. Our Food Science curriculum is unlike anywhere else in Australia. It’s the only program recognised by the US Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). With strong links to industry, you’ll benefit from factory site visits to the likes of Arnott’s and SunRice.

Engage with hands-on student projects, join supportive clubs and societies to meet like minds, and take the path to postgraduate study, narrowing in on an area that gets you excited.

What about careers?

You’ll be equipped for unlimited careers that relate to food and it’s production. You might find yourself working in new product development, as a laboratory scientist, food microbiologist, or quality manager. Some of our graduates now work for Mars Australia, Uncle Toby’s & Kellogg’s and CSIRO, to name a few.

Career options include: 

  • Product and Development
  • Research and Development
  • Technical Support
  • Management
  • Quality Assurance
  • Regulation

How can I study Food Technology?