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Master Program in Food and Meal Science, Interviews

Here you can read interviews with students and alumni from the Master Program in Food and Meal Scienc, and also from the employment market.

Matthew Pohl.

From chef’s hat to master’s degree – Matthew’s path to a new career

After many years of working in the food and meal sector, Matthew Pohl decided it was time to update his knowledge. He did so by enrolling in the Master’s Programme in Food and Meal Science at Kristianstad University.
“I chose Kristianstad over other universities in Skåne because the programme offers a broader perspective and covers the entire field. The courses were very well designed. They teach both theoretical principles and practical skills. During the second semester, students are given the opportunity to apply for a work placement".

A Master’s led to work in Sweden

Emma Verstraelen was trained as a dietician. But instead of looking for work at home in Belgium, she chose to study the Master’s programme in food and meal science.
“The Master’s programme is very open. It gives you the chance to deepen your knowledge of the subjects you find exciting, but also to challenge yourself and discover completely new areas. So, to those considering it, I would say: Give it a try!”

“I appreciate the easy access to my professors and lecturers”

He was born in Nepal, lives and works in Norway, and now studies in Sweden. Being a food chemist with a bachelor’s degree in food technology, Nawaraj Gautam is now digging deeper into food and meal science through distance learning.
“This master’s degree has helped me think in a new way and tackle problems from other perspectives. It will certainly open up new career opportunities for me.”

Inspired to focus on food waste prevention

She already had a bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from studying part time at a UK university. Now she wanted to complement that with a master’s degree. Despoina Chioti, from the Greek capitol of Athens, found the perfect program in Sweden. The Master Program in Food and Meal Science has enabled her to deepen her knowledge of her favourite topic, food waste prevention, while still tending for her teenage children.

Public meals require a broad perspective

Meal enjoyment, sustainability, health, and economy. Many factors are considered when planning, preparing, and serving a public meal. Maria Helmersson, project manager in Hässleholm municipality, hopes that the students from the Master Program in Food and Meal Science can bring a holistic view of the food system.

Read the interview.

Digital food studies led Mariola to Sweden

Being interested in both consumer behaviour and communication she looked for an education to deepen her knowledge. After finishing a freestanding course about the complexity of food choices, she found the perfect education: the Master Program in Food and Meal Science. Meet our alumni Mariola Contreras Ribera who got hooked on digital food studies.

The opportunity to study by distance was a key factor

She had been working as a dietitian in a tertiary public hospital for her entire career and was eager to further her skills in public health. Working part-time and living on the other side of the planet, were no problems, since she studied the Master Program in Food and Meal Science at Kristianstad University by distance. Meet our alumni Madeleine Neff from Australia.

Studying under her own terms

She has a passion for cooking and long history of working in catering and food production. She also has an academic background in business management and marketing. This combination was the perfect platform for Australian born Hanna Kristofers to develop further within the world of food and meal science. And the online education enables her to do it under her own terms.

Updated: 2025-08-22 by Lina Nilsson Ekedahl

Page responsible: Sarah Forsberg