University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Wins IFTSA College Bowl Food Science Trivia Competition

CHICAGO – August 3, 2026 – The Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA), a student-governed community of members of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), is proud to announce the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign won the College Bowl food science trivia competition at the recently completed IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo in Chicago. The IFTSA College Bowl Competition features teams of four competing in an intense but fun trivia-based tournament that tests the knowledge of students in a variety of topics, including food chemistry and analysis, food laws and regulations, nutrition, and sensory science.

Midwest regional champion University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign defeated Pacific Northwest regional champion University of California Davis in the final round, which was held during the IFTSA Closing Ceremony on Tuesday, July 14. First place received $1,000 and second place received $750.

“This win means a lot to us, as it reflects the dedication and hard work put in by the team. This is also the first time the University of Illinois has ever won this competition, with an added bonus of being undefeated from regionals to the final round. I really hope we can inspire others in the food science community to always stay curious and have a thirst for knowledge like our team does,” said University of Illinois team captain Jonathan Chen. “To us, College Bowl is more than just trivia; it is also a place for students who are passionate about food science to bond over our knowledge and learn from one another. I am grateful to IFTSA for organizing College Bowl, as well as other events that allow food science students to connect with each other.

Since 1985, the IFTSA College Bowl Competition has tested the knowledge of student teams from across the United States. Sponsored by Nestlé Purina, the College Bowl is designed to facilitate interaction among students from different universities and provides a forum for students to engage in friendly competition. 

“The IFT Student Association plays a vital role in helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and a successful career in the food profession. Through leadership opportunities, industry connections, professional development, and hands-on experiences, IFTSA empowers students to build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving food system,” said Steph Walaszek, IFT Manager of Academic Engagement. “But what makes IFTSA especially valuable is that it gives students access to a global community of peers, mentors, and food science professionals who share their passion for improving food through science. Whether through chapter involvement, competitions, networking, or participation in IFT FIRST, students gain real-world experiences that prepare them to become the next generation of innovators and leaders in food science.”

IFTSA members have access to an extensive library of exclusive content and resources, as well as a series of virtual and in-person networking opportunities. Learn more about joining this growing community at Become a Member.

About Institute of Food Technologists Student Association

The Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) is a student-governed community of more than 2,300 IFT members spanning 65 Chapters in 60 countries. IFTSA’s vision of a global community of inspired and informed students who are prepared for a future in food drives its mission to enrich the academic experience and empower students to thrive individually and together. To prepare the future and celebrate the community, IFTSA provides opportunities beyond the classroom and lab, grows student networks to facilitate meaningful and lasting connections, as well as includes and promotes diverse perspectives and backgrounds to foster a culture of belonging.

About Institute of Food Technologists

Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has served as the voice of the global food science community. IFT advocates for science, technology, and research to address the world’s greatest food challenges, guiding our community of more than 200,000. IFT convenes professionals from around the world – from producers and product developers to innovators and researchers across food, nutrition, and public health – with a shared mission to help create a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and accessible to all. IFT provides its growing community spanning academia, industry, and government with the resources, connections, and opportunities necessary to stay ahead of a rapidly evolving food system as IFT helps feed the minds that feed the world. For more information, please visit ift.org.