ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals)

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals) is an advanced qualification designed for learners seeking to deepen their expertise in the science, development, and application of nutraceuticals and functional foods. This programme provides a comprehensive understanding of bioactive compounds, functional ingredients, and their role in promoting health, preventing disease, and supporting overall wellbeing. Learners will gain practical skills in evaluating, designing, and implementing nutraceutical-based interventions for individuals and populations.

Throughout the course, learners will explore key topics including the biochemical properties of functional foods, mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds, regulatory frameworks, quality assurance, and evidence-based applications in clinical, wellness, and public health settings. The diploma emphasises integrating scientific research with practical implementation, enabling learners to critically appraise literature, assess efficacy, and apply functional nutrition strategies in a variety of professional contexts. Participants will also gain insight into emerging trends such as personalised nutrition, nutrigenomics, and the development of novel functional food products.

This qualification is particularly relevant for healthcare professionals, nutritionists, dietitians, researchers, and wellness practitioners who wish to expand their knowledge in nutraceuticals and functional foods. Learners will develop skills in product evaluation, dietary planning, research interpretation, and client communication, equipping them to provide evidence-based advice and interventions that enhance health outcomes.

Completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods contributes to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and strengthens career prospects in clinical nutrition, product development, research, and consultancy. Learners will be well-positioned to apply advanced knowledge in functional nutrition, influence health behaviours, and contribute to innovation in the growing nutraceutical industry.

Course overview

Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A recognised qualification at Level 5 or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, food science, biology, or a related discipline is required. Applicants with alternative qualifications may also be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional knowledge and experience.
  • Work Experience: While not mandatory, prior experience in healthcare, clinical nutrition, food science, wellness, or related fields is highly recommended. This ensures learners can engage effectively with advanced concepts in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and evidence-based nutrition interventions.
  • English Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English to fully participate in training and assessments. Non-native English speakers are expected to hold an English language qualification equivalent to IELTS Level 6.0 or above, or provide evidence of prior education or professional work conducted in English.
  • Additional Requirement: Learners should have access to a reliable internet connection, a computer or smart device, and the necessary software to engage with online, blended, or centre-based learning resources.
  • Centre Requirements: Centres delivering this qualification must ensure they have appropriately qualified and experienced staff, access to up-to-date resources on nutraceuticals and functional foods, and facilities to support high-quality teaching, assessment, and learner success.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Nutraceutical Science
  2. Functional Food Ingredients and Bioactive Compounds
  3. Evidence-Based Applications in Health and Disease Prevention
  4. Regulatory Frameworks and Quality Assurance in Nutraceuticals
  5. Research Methodology and Critical Evaluation in Functional Nutrition
  6. Professional Ethics, Communication, and Stakeholder Engagement

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Principles of Nutraceutical Science

  • Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of nutraceuticals and their role in human health.
  • Analyse the mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds and functional ingredients.
  • Evaluate the impact of nutraceuticals on disease prevention and overall wellbeing.
  • Integrate scientific principles into practical applications for health promotion.

Functional Food Ingredients and Bioactive Compounds

  • Identify key functional food ingredients and their bioactive components.
  • Assess the efficacy and safety of functional foods in various populations.
  • Critically appraise scientific literature on bioactive compounds.
  • Apply knowledge to design functional food interventions for health improvement.

Evidence-Based Applications in Health and Disease Prevention

  • Develop and implement nutrition strategies using nutraceuticals and functional foods.
  • Assess the role of functional nutrition in preventing chronic and lifestyle-related diseases.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions using evidence-based research.
  • Communicate evidence-based recommendations to clients, communities, and professionals.

Regulatory Frameworks and Quality Assurance in Nutraceuticals

  • Understand national and international regulations governing nutraceuticals and functional foods.
  • Evaluate quality control and assurance measures for product safety and efficacy.
  • Ensure compliance with legislation in product development, marketing, and distribution.
  • Advise stakeholders on regulatory requirements and best practices.

Research Methodology and Critical Evaluation in Functional Nutrition

  • Design and conduct research or audits in nutraceuticals and functional foods.
  • Critically analyse scientific studies to inform evidence-based practice.
  • Apply statistical and analytical methods to interpret research findings.
  • Use research outcomes to guide nutrition interventions and product development.

Professional Ethics, Communication, and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct in functional nutrition and nutraceutical practice.
  • Communicate complex nutritional information effectively to diverse audiences.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement nutraceutical interventions.
  • Reflect on practice to enhance service quality, safety, and professional competence.

The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods equips learners with advanced knowledge and practical skills to evaluate, design, and implement nutraceutical and functional food interventions. Completing this diploma opens diverse career and academic pathways, allowing learners to enhance professional credibility, specialise in functional nutrition, and contribute to research, product development, and health promotion initiatives. This qualification also supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and positions learners to take on leadership, advisory, or specialist roles in nutrition, wellness, and nutraceutical industries.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Learners can pursue advanced roles in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and nutrition, including:

  • Nutraceutical Consultant, providing guidance on product development and dietary interventions
  • Functional Food Specialist, evaluating and implementing functional food strategies for health improvement
  • Researcher in nutraceutical science, assessing efficacy and safety of bioactive compounds
  • Clinical Nutritionist or Wellness Practitioner, integrating functional nutrition into patient care
  • Educator or Trainer, delivering knowledge on nutraceuticals, functional foods, and evidence-based interventions

Academic Progression

This diploma provides a pathway for further study and specialisation:

  • Level 7 postgraduate qualifications in Nutraceutical Science, Clinical Nutrition, or Health Sciences
  • Advanced research opportunities in functional foods, bioactive compounds, or nutrigenomics
  • Professional certifications in specialised areas such as personalised nutrition, dietary supplementation, or wellness consultancy

Professional Development and CPD

The qualification enhances ongoing professional growth:

  • Strengthening Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through expertise in nutraceuticals and functional nutrition
  • Keeping learners updated with emerging research, regulations, and evidence-based practices
  • Building credibility as an expert in functional nutrition, product evaluation, and health interventions

Consultancy and Leadership Opportunities

Learners may also explore independent or consultancy roles:

  • Advising companies on nutraceutical product development, compliance, and marketing
  • Designing and implementing functional food and wellness programmes for clients or communities
  • Collaborating with research institutions, healthcare providers, or regulatory bodies to enhance nutrition and wellbeing outcomes

FAQs

This course is ideal for learners seeking to specialise in nutraceuticals, functional foods, and evidence-based nutrition interventions. It is suitable for healthcare professionals, nutritionists, dietitians, researchers, and wellness practitioners who wish to enhance their expertise in functional nutrition, product development, and health promotion.

Learners must be at least 19 years old and ideally hold a Level 5 qualification or equivalent in nutrition, dietetics, health sciences, food science, or a related field. Prior experience in healthcare, nutrition, or food science is recommended but not mandatory. Learners must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent) and have access to necessary digital resources.

ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals) is 60 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (Dip Nutraceuticals) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%