Agricultural and Food Products Processing

Agricultural and food products processing professionals play a key role in our nation's food supply by improving the quantity and quality of our food. Individuals in this field are responsible for the preparation of plant and animal agricultural products intended for consumption by humans.

Coursework may include nutrition, packaging, chemical and mechanical processing, health and safety requirements, inspection and storage. Degrees are available in this field at the associate's, bachelor's, master's and Ph.D. levels. Bachelor's degrees are required for most careers, and doctoral degrees are necessary for research positions.

Graduates work as agricultural inspectors, food batch makers, machine operators, plant and soil scientists or technologists, food scientists and food technologists. Jobs can be found with food industry companies, equipment and ingredient manufacturers, universities and government agencies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, efforts to increase food production for a growing population were expected to increase industry job growth by 16% through the year 2018 (www.bls.gov).

Sous Chefs, also known as sub chefs, are second in command in the kitchen. These professional cooks are responsible for planning and directing food preparation. Sous Chefs are also responsible for assisting executive chefs and chefs de cuisine. Learn more about working as a Sous Chef here.

Holistic nutrition is an individualized nutrition plan that relies on a combination of food and nutrients to promote overall health. People who study holistic nutrition often obtain work as holistic nutritionists.

Do you dream of being an integral part of our productive, modern agricultural age? There are several bachelor's degrees available in agricultural sciences at a variety of reputable universities. There are also comparable agricultural degrees offered fully online.

A degree in Food Management can lead to a career as a restaurant manager, general manager, cook, caterer or restaurant owner. These core courses prepare individuals to provide service to customers in a manner that makes them feel welcome and obeys food preparatory regulations. The Food Management degree can help owners plan a menu and make sure their restaurant is meeting the right restaurant qualifications.

Food Scientists work to improve the quality and safety of the food supply by finding new ways to package and store food. Food Scientists work in five areas: research, development, quality assurance, processing and regulatory.