Introduction to Food Science & Food Technologies for Teens (NGSS ALIGNED)

From the lab to the kitchen: A hands-on exploration of the science of food.

Course Summary

What will be taught?

This course turns your kitchen into a high-tech science lab. We bridge the gap between middle and high school science and the real world by exploring the "why" behind the food we eat. From the molecular biology of your favorite snacks to the global ethics of food production, students will gain a pro-level understanding of food science, technology, and engineering.

What topics will you cover?

We cover a massive range of academic and practical subjects across 38 lessons, organized into 8 core units:

  • The History & Industry of Food: 17th-century origins to 21st-century modern trends and social responsibility.
  • The Biology of Eating: Digestion, energy expenditure (BMR/TDEE), and the science of allergies and intolerances.
  • Food Chemistry & Biotech: The science of water activity, fats, oils, and the ethics of genetic engineering.
  • Physics, Texture & Flow: Understanding food rheology, emulsions, and the functional properties of batters and doughs.
  • Preservation & Processing: The physics of heat and cold preservation, fermentation, and advanced tech like food irradiation.
  • Commodity Science: A deep dive into the science of dairy, eggs, meat, grains, and even confectionery (the science of chocolate!).
  • Safety & Sustainability: Decoding complex food labels, HACCP risk management, and sustainable packaging.

How is your class structured?

This is a 38-lesson, self-paced journey designed to be a full-year science credit curriculum. Because it’s self-paced, students have lifetime access and can move as fast or as slow as they like. Each of the 8 units builds on the previous one, leading students from basic history to complex industrial engineering.

How will you teach?

Teaching Style

My style is evidence-based and academic, but casual and high-energy. I believe science shouldn't be confined to a textbook. I teach by showing students how the chemistry they learn in school is actually happening in their cereal bowl or their favorite yogurt.

Interaction & Formats

Even though it's self-paced, the course is highly interactive and multi-sensory:

  • 38 NGSS-Aligned Video Lessons: Engaging visual explanations of complex concepts like thermal death curves and molecular structures.
  • 20+ Hands-on Kitchen Labs: Students won't just watch—they'll do. Experiments include making yogurt, analyzing the "science of fudge," and testing food packaging sustainability.
  • Interactive Quizzes: Checkpoints to ensure students are mastering the material.
  • Real-World Application: Discussion prompts and activities that help students decode food labels and navigate the food industry like a pro.

Course Curriculum

Erin Crowell

Hi, I’m Erin Crowell!
I’m the Founder and CEO of Happy Kids Nutrition Academy, but first and foremost, I’m a parent who knows the "veggie struggle" is real. With a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Human Nutrition from Mount Saint Vincent University and over a decade of experience in the nutrition and fitness industry, I’ve dedicated my career to making health education fun and accessible for the next generation.

My mission is to empower kids aged 8-18 to build a positive relationship with food through science-backed, interactive learning. From kinesiology to food science, I believe that when kids understand the why behind their food choices, they develop habits that last a lifetime. I’ve been honored to be featured in Inc. Magazine, Global News, and Start UP Canada, and I’ve had the joy of teaching over 1,000 students across 20 countries. I can’t wait to help your child thrive!


"This class had a lot of information that crossed over with my son's chemistry class, and it was good for him to hear concepts from many perspectives. He likes to cook and bake and even though learning is sometimes hard for him, the extra material content was thought provoking. He is able to talk about a lot of things in the kitchen now that he understands many underlying concepts. Thank you for teaching this class!!" 

Tracy W

"My 17 year old/Sr. loved this class. Erin is a great teacher, extremely informative and patient with her students. The labs were engaging and fun too. I will be signing my daughter up for the Sports Nutrition class next semester. " 

Jennifer H

"This was a valuable learning experience. My son enjoyed the class and was immediately using the skills he learned. Great job!" 

Rebecca B.

Course Pricing

One-Time Purchase (Full Access)

$399 USD

  • Get lifetime access to the complete 38-lesson curriculum, all 20+ hands-on labs, and the full NGSS-aligned syllabus

    • Full-Year Science Credit Curriculum
    • 38 NGSS-Aligned Video Lessons
    • Self-Paced & Lifetime Access
    • Best Value (Save vs. Installments)
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3-Month Payment Plan

3 payments of

$166 USD

per month

  • Get instant access to all 38 lessons and 20+ labs today. Spread the cost over three easy monthly payments.

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