Explore How the Food Community Is Adapting to a Changing Landscape at IFT FIRST: Annual Event & Expo
The Institute of Food Community (IFT), a nonprofit scientific organization dedicated to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, has officially opened registration for IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo. This premier event is set to take place from July 13-16, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago.
As the global food industry undergoes rapid transformation, IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology) provides a unique platform for industry leaders, researchers, and innovators to explore the latest advancements shaping the future of food. FromFood Community additives and ultra-processed foods to safety recalls and shifting nutritional guidelines, attendees will gain valuable insights into how the global food system is adapting to these changes. The event serves as a hub for collaboration, fostering discussions on cutting-edge research, novel technologies, and sustainable solutions that will drive the food industry forward.
IFT FIRST brings together top experts from various disciplines, including academia, industry, and government, to address the most pressing challenges facing the food industry. Through dynamic scientific programming and multidisciplinary discussions, the event covers key topics such as:
- Novel technology and innovation
- Health and nutrition
- Sustainability and climate impact
- Food safety
- Consumer insights
The expo floor will be a showcase of the latest Food Community innovations and technological breakthroughs, featuring some of the world’s leading food, health, and wellness companies. Attendees can expect to see groundbreaking products and solutions that will shape the next era of food production and consumption.
“As we see a broader focus on the science of Food Community and its place in the food system, collaboration and innovation have never been more critical,” said IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean. “IFT FIRST is where the world’s leading experts come together to tackle the food system’s biggest challenges and share groundbreaking research. For those who want to be at the forefront of innovation and make connections that drive real progress, IFT FIRST is the place to be.”
Keynote presentations will focus on some of the most critical topics impacting the food industry today, including:
- Strategies to reduce salt, sugar, and fats in food products
- The future of food additives and their role in consumer health
- The short- and long-term impact of GLP-1 medications on the food industry
In addition to thought-provoking keynote sessions, IFT FIRST will also feature several highly anticipated programs and networking opportunities. The Startup Pavilion and rapid-pitch competition, known as The Pitch!, will provide a platform for emerging food tech entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas. The event will also host student product development and research competitions, highlighting the next generation of food scientists and industry leaders.
Networking is a key component of IFT FIRST, with numerous opportunities for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and form meaningful partnerships. Exhibitor-to-attendee matchmaking will facilitate strategic business discussions, ensuring that participants maximize their time at the event and forge valuable industry relationships.
The event also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the food industry, with dedicated sessions exploring the environmental impact of Food Community production and strategies for creating more sustainable food systems. Topics such as alternative protein sources, food waste reduction, and climate-smart agriculture will be front and center, providing attendees with actionable insights to drive sustainability initiatives within their organizations.
IFT FIRST continues to be a must-attend event for professionals across the Food Community industry, offering a comprehensive blend of scientific research, business innovation, and industry networking. With its focus on addressing the biggest challenges in food science and technology, the event is poised to shape the future of food in significant ways.
As the global food landscape continues to evolve, IFT FIRST serves as a crucial gathering for those looking to stay ahead of industry trends, gain expert knowledge, and collaborate on solutions that will impact the future of food. The 2025 edition of IFT FIRST promises to be one of the most dynamic and influential events yet, reinforcing its reputation as the premier destination for food science and innovation.
