According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for food scientists was $73,630 in February 2024. The top 10% of earners made more than $122,030, while the bottom 10% earned less than $49,520.
Food scientists develop and improve food products, ensuring their safety, quality, and nutrition. They work in various settings, including food processing plants, government agencies, and research laboratories.
What factors affect a food scientist’s salary?
Several factors can affect a food scientist’s salary, including:
- Education: Food scientists with a master’s or doctoral degree typically earn more than those with a bachelor’s degree.
- Experience: Food scientists with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience.
- Location: Food scientists working in urban areas typically earn more than those working in rural areas.
- Industry: Food scientists working in the food processing industry typically earn more than those working in other industries.
What are the job prospects for food scientists?
The job outlook for food scientists is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected due to the increasing demand for safe, high-quality, and nutritious food.
How to become a food scientist
To become a food scientist, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in food science, a related field, or a combination of education and experience. Some employers may also require a master’s degree or doctoral degree.
What are the skills needed to be a food scientist?
Food scientists need a variety of skills, including:
- Scientific knowledge: Food scientists need to have a strong understanding of the science behind food, including chemistry, biology, and microbiology.
- Problem-solving skills: Food scientists need to be able to identify and solve problems related to food safety, quality, and nutrition.
- Communication skills: Food scientists need to be able to communicate effectively with scientists, engineers, and the public.
- Teamwork skills: Food scientists often work as part of a team to develop and improve food products.
Is food science a good career?
Food science can be a rewarding career for people who are interested in science, food, and making a difference in the world. Food scientists have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, from developing new food products to ensuring the safety of the food supply.
They also have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including food processing plants, government agencies, and research laboratories.
Salary ranges for food scientists by state
| State | Median annual salary |
| California | $79,110 |
| New York | $76,640 |
| Texas | $68,950 |
| Florida | $67,220 |
| Pennsylvania | $66,310 |
Salary ranges for food scientists by experience
| Experience | Median annual salary |
| 0-5 years | $56,110 |
| 5-10 years | $66,310 |
| 10-15 years | $76,640 |
| 15-20 years | $86,970 |
| 20+ years | $99,030 |
Salary ranges for food scientists by industry
The following table provides salary ranges for food scientists by industry:
| Industry | Median annual salary |
| Food processing | $66,310 |
| Government | $65,420 |
| Research and development | $71,230 |
| Education | $64,560 |
| Other | $63,630 |
