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University of East Anglia

Identifying Food Fraud

University of East Anglia via FutureLearn

Overview

The food industry is one of the most important commercial sectors in the world. Everyone uses it, but how many people abuse it? As we witness the increasing globalisation of the supply chain, a growing challenge is verifying the questionable identity of raw materials in the food we eat.

In this course we will look at topical issues concerning ‘food fraud’ and explore ways in which analytical chemistry can help in its identification and prevention. We’ll share fascinating examples, such as the history of white bread and a surprising ingredient once found in bitter beer.

The University of East Anglia has joined forces with the world-renowned Institute of Food Research (IFR) to bring you this unique course. You’ll be led by Kate Kemsley, a specialist in the use of advanced instrumentation for measuring the chemical composition of food materials. Course content is linked with UEA’s MChem postgraduate programme, which supports final-year students’ practical research projects in this area of science.

Where could this course take me?

If you are planning to study Chemistry at college or university - this course will give you an essential overview of some instrumental techniques that you are likely to encounter. This includes exploration of infrared technology, NMR and mass spectrometry; important areas of Chemistry for A-Level students to grasp.

This course is also designed to support the professional development of those currently working in the food industry, who want to delve deeper into the methods analytical chemists take in the measurements of food materials and ingredients. It will act as the perfect refresher for your current knowledge base, as you can interact online with thousands of individuals working in the food sector today.

What and how will I learn?

You’ll acquire knowledge and understanding of infrared technology, NMR and mass spectrometry with practical examples linked to current standards and issues in the food sector. You will gain a global perspective of the value of chemistry in this area and learn from analytical chemists in action.

By enjoying a balance of theory and practical applications, students learn directly from academics at the University of East Anglia and scientists from the Institute of Food Research, with a brilliant chance to network throughout the duration of the course.

No formal qualifications, just an interest in food fraud and a basic understanding of chemistry.

Syllabus

  • Becoming a food fraud detective
    • Introduction to the course
    • Introducing infrared spectroscopy
    • End of week roundup
  • Ensuring value with mid-infrared
    • Mid-infrared spectroscopy: for a more detailed analysis
    • Coffee: a high value commodity with a complex chemical composition
    • End of week roundup
  • Cutting-edge magnetic resonance techniques
    • High-field NMR: a gold standard analytical technique
    • Bench-top NMR: an affordable alternative
    • End of week round-up
  • Verifying food origins using stable isotopes
    • Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS)
    • Final thoughts on the course

Taught by

Kate Kemsley

Reviews

4.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

5 rating at FutureLearn based on 18 ratings

Start your review of Identifying Food Fraud

  • It's not an area that many people think about - but if you are interested in food, it's probably a good investment of a few hours of your time as a good introduction.

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