The 21st century food scientist will need to embrace the basic sciences of mathematics and
statistics, among others, to help in the collection, analysis and interpretation of so-called ‘mega
data’, including vast amounts of raw data, and huge data sets that are sometimes incompatible (The
Economist, 2010). The ability to effectively and efficiently collect, analyze, interrogate and
interpret a deluge of data will impact the success or otherwise of the many exciting transformational
and disruptive technologies, several of which are noted above.