In the latter part of the 20th century,it became evident that major advances in understanding could be achieved by gathering together scientists from unique,diverse but nonetheless complementary disciplines.To what extent can this be achieved in materials science,food science,food technology and nutrition?This presentation will illustrate some of the opportunities now available through strategic alliances with materials scientists and the application of methods such as X-ray and neutron scattering to gain a critical understanding of food microstructure,nanostructure and dynamics.