News - Chemical Sciences Skills Gap Threatens Global Food Production

Dr Philippa Bell, NEF Director of Policy and Research, today commented on the recent publication of her report on the impact of the chemical sciences and engineering across the global food supply chain. The report is entitled 'The vital ingredient: Chemical science and engineering for sustainable food'.

Dr Bell said:

"By 2030 the world's population will have increased by 1.7 billion to over 8 billion, bringing with it a need to meet growing calorific demand. Publishing this report is an important milestone in highlighting the vital role the chemical sciences will play globally in sustainable food production."

"Technical skills are essential to maintain safety in the food supply chain and to increase competitiveness. However recruitment into technical, engineering and operational roles remains problematic. The FE sector has a central role to play in addressing the skills gap. If we are to meet the food production challenges ahead, we must address issues such as funding and professional development within the sector."

Dr Bell, who was formerly Bioscience Manager at the Royal Society of Chemistry, co-authored this report with Dr Farrah Bhatti.

The report covers primary agriculture, food processing and manufacture, distribution and retail, consumers, supply-chain waste and issues surrounding education and skills for the food industry.

At its launch in Parliament on the 21 January, the keynote address was given by the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, with contributions from Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the Council of Food Policy Advisors and Rt Hon Michael Jack MP, Chair, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee.

Further information can be found at:

http://www.rsc.org/ScienceAndTechnology/Policy/Documents/thevitalingredient.asp