One of the most underrated course in Kenya is food science..a lot of Kenyans do not realize that food production and processing is a huge industry that will not always be growing because everyone must eat daily- and do not forget that our population is fast expanding.

In short, graduates of food science courses in Kenya are likely to be in demand for a very long time.

So I have written this detailed Food science courses in Kenya guide to help you understand everything about pursuing food science course in Kenya- from the requirements, colleges and universities offering the course, career prospects, and more.

Read it to the end if you have been thinking of pursuing one of the best food science and processing technology courses in Kenya.

Food science courses in Kenya – All you need to know about Food science course in Kenya

What is food science course in Kenya- What is the course all about?

Well, food science is in real sense a multidisciplinary field- it is very wide and combines an array of scientific principles with modern food production as well as processing technologies/skills.

To be clear, food science brings together disciplines such as microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, and even a bit of engineering to help you understand the composition(design), preservation, and ultimately the processing of various foods.

And a person who has completed the course is known as a food scientist..

Question: What will be your role as a food scientist?

The answer is simple: You will be applying the scientific knowledge you learned to contribute to the design/development of brand new food products(solid foods and drinks/beverages).

You are also expected to help in the improvement of the quality of food you’re in charge of (you’ll be working in food processing industries such as Breweries, Supa loaf, Coca Cola , Zeta Foods, Brookside, and more).

Another important role for you will be to ensure food safety-it is your work to make sure food is processed, preserved, and handled(even during transportation) in a safe environment to avoid incidences of food poisoning.

Yeah… that’s it.

Is food science and technology marketable in Kenya?

Good question.

The truth is that there’s no single that will always lead to straightforward employment – you must know where to look when it comes to job searches and you must network properly.

And you have to be aggressive in your job hunt, regardless of the course you take.

That said, there’s growing demand for food scientists and other skilled professionals in Kenya’s food industry.

Why?

I had already told you: As our population continues to rapidly grow, food processing companies are making more sales- and that means they are employing more food scientists to help guarantee that their products are safe and have the required nutritional value.

So I keep seeing more opportunities every time I Google for food science jobs in Kenya.

I also see more Food Technologist jobs in Kenya these days compared to the past.

So yeah, the course has better employment prospects than say business courses in Kenya..remember you can even open your own food processing company ( Yoghurt making, Bakery, Mineral water processing, organic foods processing, etc.)

Where can you work with a food science and technology qualification?

Once you get a food science certificate, diploma, or degree, you can get employment in a host of sectors.

These includes:

• Food manufacturing – Breweries, Bidco, etc.
• Research and development firms in the food sector
• Quality control firms such as KEBS.
• Regulatory compliance bodies/ Government agencies such as Kenya Dairy Board.
• NGOs
• Academic institutions as an instructor/food scientist

And some of the positions you can occupy are:

• Food Plant Production Manager/Supervisor
• Food Product /Ingredient Development Scientist
• Food Microbiologist /Food Safety Expert
• Sensory Scientist
• Food Chemist
• Quality Control Supervisor
• Quality Control clerk
• Food Process & Packaging Design Engineer
• Food science instructor

Reminder:

The course allows you to focus on any specific areas you have more interest. For instance, you could specialize in just food technology (food processing techniques/technologies, packaging, and of course, preservation methods).

Alternatively, you might want to specialize in just sensory evaluation (you will be assessing quality of food, the flavor, and the texture.

The other specialization you may choose is food safety – here you will be focusing on one thing: safety and the hygiene of a variety of food products.

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Requirements for food science and technology course in Kenya

Certificate in food science and technology in Kenya – certificate in food science and technology requirements

KCSE Mean Grade – D (Plain)

Cluster subjects– None

Course duration – 2 years

Best examination body– KNEC/CDACC

Diploma in food science and technology requirements

KCSE Mean Grade – C minus

Cluster subjects– None

Course duration – 3 years

Best examination body– KNEC/CDACC

Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology requirements

KCSE Mean Grade – C plus

Cluster subjects and requirements

Biology– C or above

Chemistry- C or above

Maths /Physics /Geography– C or above

One of these subjects: English, Physics (if not counted above), Kiswahili, History& Government, Geography (again if not considered above), Music, C.R.E/I.R.E/H.R.E, Computer Studies, German, French, Home Science, Agriculture, Art& Design, Aviation Technology, Arabic, Business Studies- C or above.

 Course duration – 4 years

Other acceptable qualifications

• Diploma in Biological Sciences(or any related sciences)- but you must have scored a C or above in your KCSE(mean grade)
• Certificate plus Diploma in Biological(or any related sciences)- but you must have scored a C- or above in your KCSE(mean grade)
• Degree in biological sciences(or any related sciences)- but your degree must have been awarded by an accredited University

Institutions offering food processing courses in Kenya

Colleges offering certificate in food science and technology

Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences

This is a medical training institution that has been accredited by TVETA.

Not only does it teach health and medical courses but also food science programs.

The college is in Thika.

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa(CUEA)

Catholic University also offers a Certificate course in Food Science and Technology

CUEA is in Lang’ata.

Colleges offering diploma in food science and technology

Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences

I already told you about Imperial College- Remember that the college is in Thika.

JKUAT University

You can also take the course at JKUAT University in Juja.

But know that you must have a C plain in your KCSE (Mean Grade)- and not C-.

Besides, you must have scored a C plain in the following subjects:

• Math
• Chemistry
• Physics / Physical Sciences
• Biology / biological sciences

Diploma in food science and technology units (JKUAT)

Year 1- STAGE 1

• Introduction to Food Technologies
• Physics I
• Mathematics I
• Chemistry I
• Agricultural Production Principles
• Communication Skills
• General Economics
• Introduction to Computers& Operating Systems
• HIV/AIDS

Year 1- STAGE 2

• Principles of Management
• Software Applications
• General Microbiology
• Mathematics II
• Chemistry II
• Biochemistry
• Statistics
• Physics II

Year 1- STAGE 3

• Food Analysis I
• Food Engineering I
• Meat Technology
• Food Microbiology
• Beverage Technology
• Principles of Food Processing& Preservation
• Dairy Technology
• Food Chemistry

Year 2-STAGE 4

• Human Nutrition
• Fruits& Vegetable Technology
• Students Projects & Report Writing
• Fats & Oils Technology
• Food Engineering II
• Cereal Technology
• Food Analysis II
• Sugar & Starch Technology
• Internal Attachment

Year 2-STAGE 5

Industrial Attachment- 8weeks

Year 2-STAGE 6

• Sensory Evaluation
• Postharvest Food Systems
• Entrepreneurship Skills
• Introduction to Book-keeping and Accounts
• Food Toxicology
• Students Projects& Seminars
• Food Quality Assurance
• Food Packaging

Universities offering degree in food science and technology

University of Nairobi

The prestigious University of Nairobi offers a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology.

JKUAT

Another nice institution is JKUAT(Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology), which teaches a super comprehensive food science and technology curriculum.

Food science and technology platform of Kenya -How to network after completing the course

I urge you to consider joining organizations such as the KFCB(Kenya Food Control Board) and the KIFST(Kenya Institute of Food Science and Technology)- here you will meet experienced professionals who can hold your hand as you start off.

Food science courses in Kenya- FAQ (Frequently asked questions)

What is the duration of a typical food science course in Kenya?

Typically, degree level food science course in Kenya takes four years. Meanwhile, a Diploma takes 3 years and a certificate level course 2 years (on average)

What are the job prospects for food science graduates in Kenya?

As mentioned earlier, you can get work in many sectors including food manufacturing companies, research & development firms/bodies, quality assurance organizations like KEBS, and regulatory compliance agencies like Kenya Dairy Board.

Wrapping it up

Food science course in Kenya can open the gates for you to an exciting and very rewarding career in the fast expanding food industry in Kenya.

In fact, the demand for qualified food scientists is projected to continue to grow rapidly so there are countless opportunities to achieve the growth you aspire for.

So consider taking a food science in Kenya…you never know!

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The post Food science courses in Kenya [A comprehensive guide to food science course in Kenya] appeared first on Kenya Education Guide.

Well, this is likely what you’re wondering if you have been called by KUCCPS to take this course or it has been recommended to you by parents/friends/relatives.

So, is food science and technology marketable in Kenya?

Find out what we think about your job prospects if you go ahead and take this course:

Is food science and technology marketable in Kenya?

Well, the course is not as marketable as it used to be a few years back.

That is not to say that there are no jobs completely…what I mean is that today there are way fewer direct employment opportunities  for graduates of food science courses in Kenya compared to the days gone by.

And for that reason, you are likely to take a little longer to get a formal job with the course in Kenya- unless you’re doing it with an intention to open your own food processing business.

Having answered the question “is food science and technology marketable in Kenya?”, let us now look at what the course is all about in more detail..

What is food technology exactly?

Food technology deals with the techniques involved in processing and preservation of food substances.

In essence, it is the application of food science processes which help in manufacturing safe wholesome and nutritious food products.

Put another way, food technologists are involved in the improvement of food products in all stages of food handling -from growth, cultivation, production including quality management during processing, packaging, distribution, and preservation.

You see, you will graduate as a food technologist if you do the course so it is important to mention what your typical roles will be exactly as above .

Just to be clear, as a food technologist, your routine responsibilities will be to research and develop new foods and beverages, oversee their production, distribution, processing, quality management, packaging, and preservation.

Key skills and interests required to pursue a career in food science and technology

• Interest in sciences
• High standard of cleanliness
• Leadership qualities
• Team spirit
• Flexibility
• Numeracy and problem solving skills
• Time management and organizational skills
• Good research skills
• Self confidence
• Meticulous attention to detail

What the Job/Career/Professional entails

As I had said earlier, you as a food technologist will be carrying out the following duties (to list a few):

• Analyze food content
• Determine the appropriate level of protein, fat, sugar, vitamin and other elements of nutrition value in foods/beverages
• Research on various ways to keep food fresh
• Develop new food products
• Check and improve safety and quality control procedure

Food science qualifications in Kenya

Degree in Food science in Kenya (Bachelor’s in Food Processes Technology)

KCSE Mean Grade: C+

Additional requirements

You also need a C (plain) in Biology /Chemistry /Maths / Physics / Geography, and any one of these subjects: Kiswahili, English, Physics (if not above), History & Government, Geography (if you have not included it above), Computer Studies, Business Studies, CRE, German, Music, Religious education (Islamic Religious Education/Hindu Religious Education/CRE), Art & Design, Home Science, Aviation Technology, Agriculture, French, Arabic.

Alternative entry qualifications

1. Diploma in Biological Sciences/related sciences plus C (KCSE mean grade) or above.
2. A Certificate/Diploma in Biological/related sciences plus C- (KCSE mean grade) or above.
3. A degree in biological sciences/related sciences from any recognized University.

Please note that you may be required to take an English language proficiency course if you are not able to demonstrate English proficiency.

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Diploma in Food Science Technology

KCSE Mean Grade: C-

Additional requirements: None

Certificate in Food Science of Technology / Craft in food science technology

KCSE Mean Grade: D plain

Additional requirements: None

I should add that you can even take the course with an E grade (KCSE mean grade) in some private institutions (for example, NIBS).

Universities offering Bachelor of Science (Bsc.) Food Science and Technology

• CU (Catholic University)
• DKUT (Dedan Kimathi University Of Kenya)
• EU (Egerton University)
• JKUAT
• MKU(Mt Kenya University)
• MMUST (Masinde Muliro University Of Science And Technology)
• MUST(Meru University)
• MUT(Muranga University Of Technology)
• TUK (Technical University Of Kenya)
• TUM (Technical University Of Mombasa)
• UON (University Of Nairobi)

Colleges offering Food Science and Technology courses in Kenya

Below are some of the colleges you can join under government-sponsorship to do a diploma/certificate in food science course in Kenya:

• Aldai TTI
• Bukura agricultural college
• Belgut TVC
• Bomet TVC
• Bumbe TTI
• Bureti TTI
• Chepalungu TTI
• Chepsirei TVC
• CIT (Coast Institute Of Technology)
• Daniel Wako Murende TVC
• Eldoret National Polytechnic
• Emsos TVC
• Emurua Dikirr TTI
• Jeremiah Nyagah TI
• Kabete National Polytechnic
• Kakrao TVC
• Kamukunji TVC
• Karen TTI
• Karumo TTI
• Katine
• Kenya Coast National Polytechnic
• Kericho Township TVC
• Keroka TTI
• Kinangop TVC
• Kipkabus TVC
• KiptaragonTVC
• Kiambu Institute Of Science And Technology
• Kitale National Polytechnic
• Konoin TTI
• Koshin TTI
• Kisii National Polytechnic
• Kisumu National Polytechnic
• Laikipia East TVC
• Laikipia North TVC
• Laisamis TVC
• Lari TVC
• Mabera TVC
• Masai TTI
• Mathenge TTI
• Matili TTI
• Mawego TTI
• Meru National Polytechnic
• Michuki TTI
• Mitunguu TTI
• Mukiria TTI
• Muranga TVC
• Musakasa TTI
• Nairobi TTI
• North Eastern National Polytechnic
• Ngong TVC
• Nkabune TTI
• North Horr TVC
• Nyandarua Institute Of Science & Technology
• Nyeri National Polytechnic
• Ol’lessos TTI
• Omuga TVC
• PC Kinyanjui TTI
• Rangwe TVC
• Riamo TVC
• Rift Valley TTI
• Sabatia TVC
• Samburu TVC
• SEKU (South Eastern Kenya University)
• Shamberere TTI
• Sigalagala National Polytechnic
• Sirisia TVC
• Siruti TVC
• Siaya Institute Of Technology
• Sotik TTI
• Joseph Technical Institute For The Blind
• Tetu TVC
• Thika TTI
• Tseikuru TTI
• Webuye West TVC
• Weru TVC
• Wote TTI

Potential employers

• Food industries like Kenya Breweries and Bread companies.
• NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations)
• Government parastatals
• Research institutions
• Consultancy firms (self or established)
• Food service industry including catering businesses

Career prospects for holders of a food science and technology course in Kenya / Food Processing Technology

Artisan course

• Baker
• Café Operator

Craft course

• Baker
• Brewery Worker

Diploma holder

• Technologist
• Quality Assurance officer
• Nutrition Therapist
• Regulatory Affairs Officer
• Technical Brewer
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Consultant

Degree

• Food Technologist

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