Women in Food Science and Technology

Food Science and Technology involves an extensive and vital spectrum of disciplines, ranging from food chemistry, food processing and engineering, food biotechnology, and food sustainability, among others. These fields are connected by a singular and critical mission: enhancing the global food systems and ensuring the long-term well-being of the population. While the contributions of women in these sectors are undeniably exceptional, a significant disparity remains in their representation at the highest levels of scientific leadership. According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics data, covering the years 2015-2018, women account for only 33.3% of researchers globally, and in many Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-related fields, the women's underrepresentation persists as careers progress toward senior academic and decision-making roles. In the agri-food sector specifically, despite women’s foundational role in production and innovation, they are still underrepresented as principal investigators on large-scale international projects.Acknowledging that 2026 has been declared the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF), the objective of this Research Topic is to bridge this visibility gap by providing a prestigious platform devoted to cutting-edge research led by women in Food Science and Technology. Our goal is to showcase how female-led innovation is driving the next generation of solutions for global challenges, such as food security, circular economy practices, personalized nutrition, one-health, etc. By highlighting high-quality manuscripts authored and led by women, this collection searches for a more inclusive scientific discourse, encourages women mentorship, and allows diverse perspectives that gender-balanced teams bring to complex problem-solving. As research consistently indicates that diversity and equality within scientific teams lead to more innovative outcomes and broader societal impact, this Research Topic serves to promote these values and integrate them into the future landscape of Food Science and Technology.We cordially invite female scientists, researchers, and academics from across the globe to contribute their latest findings to this Research Topic. We are looking for original research and comprehensive reviews that push the boundaries of knowledge in areas including, but not limited to, food chemistry, microbiology, processing, engineering, sensory science, allergy, nutrition, quality, functionality, biotechnology and sustainability. By participating, we want to demonstrate that the future of food is not only sustainable and safe but also increasingly shaped by the brilliance and ingenuity of women. Topic editors: Elena Ibañez, Lidia Montero García, Marleny D.A. Saldaña, Weihong Lu Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80083/women-in-food-science-and-technology