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Kate Kemsley and Stephen Amiss

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more No formal qualifications, just an interest in food fraud and a basic understanding of chemistry. You can use the hashtag #FLfoodfraud to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

  • Introduction to methods of food fraud detection
  • Infra-red detection of fraud in coffee
  • Verifying the origins of honey using stable isotopes
  • Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy and the horsemeat scandal

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to food fraud detection

According to students, 'Identifying Food Fraud' is a highly relevant and fascinating course, particularly beneficial for professionals in food safety and quality control. Learners frequently commend its ability to explain complex scientific methods in an accessible way, reinforced by compelling real-world case studies. While many find it a solid foundation and excellent overview for those new to the field, some experienced professionals found it lacked sufficient depth. Conversely, learners without a basic science background occasionally found the material challenging, suggesting it's best suited for those with some foundational science knowledge. A few reviews mentioned a desire for more hands-on demonstrations or interactive elements to enhance practical application.
Excellent overview for newcomers, but may be too basic for advanced learners.
"I found this course somewhat disappointing... As someone with an advanced degree in biochemistry, I felt it lacked the depth I was looking for."
"Too basic for my expectations. I was hoping for more detailed insights into detection methodologies, but it only scratched the surface."
"It's an introductory course, but probably better suited for those with at least some basic science knowledge."
The course content addresses current challenges in food authenticity.
"The course content is incredibly up-to-date, addressing current challenges in food authenticity."
"It effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry needs."
Real-world case studies effectively reinforce learning and relevance.
"I especially appreciated the real-world examples and case studies which made the content incredibly relevant..."
"The case studies were interesting, but the overall delivery could be more engaging for a wider audience."
"The case studies reinforced the learning effectively. I really enjoyed learning about the different methods used."
Complex scientific methods are explained in an accessible manner.
"The scientific methods were explained in an accessible way, making even complex topics like NMR understandable."
"The way they explained complex topics was brilliant, and the examples were very helpful. It gave me a great start..."
"The explanations of advanced concepts were surprisingly easy to follow, making it accessible."
Provides practical insights applicable to the food industry.
"The real-world examples and case studies which made the content incredibly relevant for my role in food quality control."
"It effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical industry needs."
"Fantastic course for anyone interested in food safety and fraud. The content was highly relevant and explained in a clear, concise manner."
Some learners desired more interactive elements or lab simulations.
"While it touches on various detection methods, I would have loved to see more hands-on demonstrations or virtual lab simulations to really grasp the practical application."
"More interactive elements would improve the experience."
"I felt it provided a good overview, but for practical application in a lab setting, one would definitely need supplementary learning."

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Career center

Learners who complete Identifying Food Fraud will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

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