WAEC Syllabus for Food and Nutrition 2025

Are you planning to register for the Food and Nutrition exam in the upcoming West African Examination? Do you need a reliable guide to help you prepare effectively? If so, this resource is designed just for you. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the official syllabus for Food and Nutrition to aid students in their preparation.
The WAEC Syllabus for Food and Nutrition highlights key topics, likely exam questions, and areas of focus to give students a clear understanding of what to expect.
In this article, you’ll find a breakdown of the WAEC Syllabus for Food and Nutrition, recommended textbooks, and essential exam guidelines.
WAEC Syllabus for Food and Nutrition
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) syllabus for Food and Nutrition is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of food science, meal planning, nutrition, and food preparation. The syllabus aims to equip candidates with the necessary skills to make informed choices about food, promote healthy living, and prepare them for careers in food-related industries.
Objectives of the Syllabus
The WAEC syllabus for Food and Nutrition seeks to:
- Develop students’ understanding of the importance of food and its relationship to health.
- Equip students with knowledge about the selection, preparation, and preservation of food.
- Encourage practical skills in meal planning and food service.
- Instill an appreciation for the cultural and social aspects of food.
- Foster awareness of the nutritional needs of different individuals and groups.
- Promote entrepreneurship in food-related businesses.
Examination Structure
The WAEC Food and Nutrition exam comprises two papers:
- Paper 1: Objective Test – This consists of multiple-choice questions covering all topics in the syllabus.
- Paper 2: Essay and Practical Test – This paper includes structured essay questions and practical-based questions that assess students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.
Key Areas in WAEC Food and Nutrition Syllabus
The WAEC Syllabus for Food and Nutrition is divided into major sections, each focusing on a key area of food science and nutrition.
1. Introduction to Food and Nutrition
- Definition of food and nutrition
- Importance of food and nutrition in human health
- Career opportunities in food and nutrition
2. Nutrients and Their Functions
- Carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils, vitamins, minerals, water, and fiber
- Sources and functions of each nutrient
- Effects of nutrient deficiencies and excesses
3. Food Classification and Nutritional Value
- Classes of food
- Nutritional composition of common foods
- Food sources and dietary guidelines
4. Meal Planning and Management
- Principles of meal planning
- Factors affecting meal planning (age, health condition, culture, religion, economic status)
- Food budgeting and cost control
5. Food Preparation and Cooking Methods
- Different cooking methods (boiling, frying, baking, roasting, steaming, grilling, etc.)
- Effect of cooking on food nutrients
- Safety and hygiene in food preparation
6. Food Processing and Preservation
- Methods of food preservation (refrigeration, drying, smoking, canning, salting, etc.)
- Importance of food preservation
- Causes and prevention of food spoilage
7. Food Hygiene and Safety
- Principles of food hygiene
- Causes and prevention of food contamination
- Personal and kitchen hygiene practices
8. Balanced Diet and Malnutrition
- Components of a balanced diet
- Effects of malnutrition (kwashiorkor, marasmus, obesity, etc.)
- Dietary requirements for different individuals (pregnant women, infants, the elderly, athletes, etc.)
9. Consumer Education and Food Economics
- Wise buying decisions
- Food labeling and consumer rights
- Budgeting and meal costing
10. Entrepreneurship in Food and Nutrition
- Small-scale food businesses (catering, baking, food vending, etc.)
- Business planning and management
- Marketing strategies for food-related businesses
Recommended Textbooks
Students preparing for the WAEC Food and Nutrition exam should refer to the following textbooks:
- “Food and Nutrition for Senior Secondary Schools” – Ayo B. Oguntona
- “Home Economics for Senior Secondary Schools” – Elizabeth U. Anyakoha
- “Food Science and Nutrition” – Helen Kowtaluk
- WAEC-approved revision guides and past question papers
Tips for Success in the WAEC Food and Nutrition Exam
- Ensure that you cover all topics outlined in the syllabus.
- Solving past WAEC Food and Nutrition questions will help you understand the exam format.
- Hands-on experience with food preparation and meal planning is essential.
- Focus on the functions of nutrients, cooking methods, and food safety.
- Create a study schedule to review topics consistently.
Conclusion
The WAEC syllabus for Food and Nutrition provides students with essential knowledge about food science, meal preparation, and healthy eating. By mastering the syllabus, candidates can excel in their exams and develop practical skills for everyday life and future careers in nutrition, hospitality, or food-related enterprises.
We hope this page has provided readers with helpful tips and the complete information needed for the forthcoming West African Examination 2025. If you still need more information on the WAEC registration and screening process, kindly visit our page more often as we always post fresh updates. If you have any question to ask, please message us via the comment box and we will surely reply to them.