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Pathways to study
food waste
This page suggests avenues for Food Waste Innovation related study at the University of Otago.
Whether you are a prospective undergraduate, postgraduate, or postdoctoral researcher, there are research opportunities available for you.
Study Options
Starting from a base of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) majoring in Food Science or Agricultural Innovation, Environmental Management, or any other related undergraduate degree, students can carry on and do postgraduate study, which can be partially or fully dedicated to a food waste-related topic.
To inquire or for more information, contact us at food.waste@otago.ac.nz
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While there is currently no dedicated food waste paper, here are several papers that contain food waste content across the University:
SOC319 Global Politics of Food: Embark on a captivating exploration of the pivotal role of food in shaping our world. This paper offers an insightful, historically-rooted introduction to the intricate web of politics, economics, and society that revolves around food.
FOSC308 Food and Consumers: Uncover the secrets behind why people make their food choices, and discover how we might influence these decisions. This paper provides an interdisciplinary review of the dynamics of consumer food choices.
FOSC311 Food Product Development: Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of food innovation and engage in a simulated industrial research and development scenario. This paper equips you with the technical problem-solving skills fit for the food industry.
FOSC400 Food Waste: This module delves into the reason behind the paradox of unconsumed food. It examines why people don’t fully utilise the food they buy and seeks to influence these behaviours to mitigate food waste's social, economic and environmental impacts. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach, students are empowered to drive change and contribute to the learning process. The module involves students designing and executing a student-led initiative focused on reducing food waste. The course facilitates real-world engagement with consumer food waste issues beyond traditional classroom settings.
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Our postgraduate students are researching food waste in various University departments, such as Food Science, Botany, Anatomy, Geography, Sociology, Marketing, and Accounting and Finance. Learn more about these students on the Our People page. The University’s best food waste supervisors are among our principal investigators. Learn more about Our Investigators.
We offer food waste research at different postgraduate study levels:
Contact us to inquire about suitable programmes or supervisors for you.
Shared Horizon 23 - University of Otago. A short video highlighting our Food Science Department's work in food waste. Presented by the NZ Food and Grocery Council in partnership with ASN Media.
Scholarships and Funding
University of Otago
The University of Otago offers general scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Learn more about these scholarships.
The University’s Sustainability Office offers annual waste minimisation scholarships supported by Waste Management New Zealand Limited in projects, such as product prototypes, business start-up ideas, or behaviour change initiatives. Visit the Sustainability Office website.
Food Waste Innovation
Annual Food Waste Innovation Seed Funding is available to support food waste research or action projects. Explore Food Waste Innovation Seed Funding.
Summer Studentships support current students continuing their studies at the University of Otago, lasting 6 to 10 weeks from mid-November to mid-February. Participating students are awarded a tax-free educational grant of $500 per weOtherther yearly scholarships are available, and details are posted on the website when available. Additionally, stay updated by joining the mailing list.