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IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo white logo with blue and green color
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About IFT FIRST

What is IFT FIRST?

IFT FIRST means Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. It is IFT’s response to the transformative nature of the global food system. IFT FIRST will bring together researchers, scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs from across the global food value chain to discuss scientific solutions in presentations and panels focused on transformative innovation.

Attendees will have the chance to interact with 1,000+ exhibitors showcasing the latest innovative solutions, technologies, new products and ingredients. Experiential innovation areas, scientific posters and intentional networking are key pieces of the IFT FIRST experience. And, at IFT FIRST, you can conduct more business and learning in three short days than you might accomplish all year long.

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Five smiling  students holding various food signs and a #IFTFIRST sign

Who Attends IFT FIRST?

  • Professionals in Brand Management: Chemistry; the C-Suite; Culinology/Menu Research; Flavors; Food Processing/Packaging Engineering; Food Safety/Quality Science; Food Science; Innovation; Investing; Laboratory; Nutrition; Ownership; Product Development; Research; Research & Development; Sales and Marketing; Supply Chain; Technical Services; Venture Capital Management; and more.
  • Educators and Students in Chemistry; Food Safety; Food Science; Microbiology; Nutrition; Sustainability; and more.
  • Global Government and Governing Bodies in Administration; Health and Nutrition; Quality; Regulatory Affairs; Safety; and more.

Solutions Showcase

Discover breakthrough solutions and product innovations that are addressing today's most pressing food challenges. Presented by Food Technology magazine.

Solutions Showcase

Hot Topics Studio

Engage with trendwatchers and thought leaders in intimate one-on-one discussions in the Hot Topics Studio.

Hot Topics Studio

Innovation Hub

Engage with the latest technology solutions, demo products, and vote for IFT Technology Innovation of the Year! This is the place to see the future and be inspired.

Innovation Hub

Startup Pavilion

Engage with innovative food businesses showcasing cutting-edge solutions at various growth stages. Don't miss The Pitch competition where startups compete for $10,000, presented by the Seeding the Future Foundation.

Startup Pavilion

IFT Hub

The IFT Hub, on the Expo floor, is your gateway to greater impact on the global food system. Here, you can network with staff, connect with Member Resource Groups, access career tools, and learn about membership benefits.

IFT Hub

Food Expo

With 1,000+ exhibitors, whether you're looking for innovation, ingredients, applications, cutting-edge solutions or technology, the IFT FIRST Food Expo has you covered. See companies you can meet.

Food Expo

Scientific Sessions

Experience conversation-style panels discussing challenging questions facing the food science community.

Scientific Sessions

Posters & Research Showcase

Hear and see students present the latest and greatest research in food innovation. Take in the more than 400 posters on display during IFT FIRST and don't miss the awards ceremony Wednesday!

Posters & Research Showcase

Taste of Science

Discover innovative ways ingredients and science meld together to create beautiful bites. Don't miss the self-guided sample tour!

Taste of Science