Welcome to the new IFT.org
Now home to IFT FIRST
Expo Experiences
New in 2026: Programming Meets the Expo Hall
For the first time, all scientific programming happens directly in the expo hall —creating seamless connections between research and real-world application. Everyone at IFT FIRST will have an equitable education opportunity to learn about cutting-edge science, then immediately explore available solutions with exhibitors in one dynamic environment.
Individual Presentations
Explore the science behind today’s most important food system advancements through Individual Presentations at IFT FIRST. These focused sessions showcase original research, applied case studies, and emerging innovations from leading experts across academia, industry, and government, curated by IFT’s volunteer-led Annual Meeting Scientific Programs Advisory Panel (AMSPAP).
Designed for attendees who want to dive deep into specific topics, Individual Presentations connect cutting-edge science with real-world application, offering practical insights you can take back to your work, research, or studies.
Ideal for: food scientists, R&D professionals, students, and technical leaders seeking targeted, science-driven learning opportunities.
Scientific & Technical Forums
Where science meets real-world problem solving.
Join interdisciplinary, conversation-style panels that tackle today’s most pressing scientific and technical challenges in food. Scientific & Technical Forums connect you with subject matter experts and peers for dynamic dialogue focused on shared challenges and actionable insights.
Designed for researchers, technical experts, academics, and industry professionals, these sessions encourage collaboration, fresh thinking, and solution-oriented discussion—all curated by IFT’s volunteer-led Annual Meeting Scientific Programs Advisory Panel (AMSPAP).
Posters & Research Showcase
Explore the science shaping the future of food
Discover cutting-edge research from across the global food science community in the Posters & Research Showcase at IFT FIRST. This experience brings together emerging insights, applied research, and innovative thinking—designed for flexible, self-guided exploration or direct engagement with researchers.
Choose how you engage:
- Digital Posters (New!) – Browse research anytime or connect with authors during select sessions
- Physical Posters – Explore traditional poster displays refreshed throughout the day
- Poster Presentation Sessions – Meet researchers, ask questions, and exchange ideas face-to-face
Whether you want to scan the latest research at your own pace or dive deeper through discussion, the Posters & Research Showcase offers multiple ways to stay informed, inspired, and connected.
Hot Topics Studio
Fast insights. Real dialogue. Front-row access to what’s shaping the future of food.
The Hot Topics Studio delivers concise, interview-style conversations with leading voices in food science, health, policy, and innovation. You can also be part of daily Community Conversations that invite you into the discussion.
These sessions tackle the most pressing and provocative issues impacting the global food system, offering diverse perspectives, science-based insight, and the opportunity to engage directly with peers and experts.
Whether you’re tracking emerging trends, exploring opposing viewpoints, or contributing your expertise, the Hot Topics Studio keeps you informed, connected, and ahead of what’s next.
Startup Pavilion
Discover the Future of Food—Today
The Startup Pavilion is the most visited destination at IFT FIRST and the place to discover what’s next in food science and technology. Featuring up to 100 emerging food and food-tech startups, this dynamic showcase brings bold ideas, breakthrough innovations, and new approaches to commercialization—all in one place.
Explore cutting-edge ingredient solutions, advanced technologies, and scalable platforms shaping the future of the global food system. Connect directly with founders, evaluate potential partners, and identify innovations before they hit the mainstream.
Why Visit the Startup Pavilion?
- Discover emerging solutions across ingredients, processing, sustainability, and food tech
- Meet startups solving the industry’s biggest challenges
- Explore partnership, sourcing, and investment opportunities
From live Startup Pavilion Showcases to the high-energy The Pitch! competition, this is where innovation meets opportunity.
Keynotes
Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Real-World Impact.
The IFT FIRST Keynotes brings the science of food community together around the ideas shaping what’s next. Featuring influential leaders from food science, technology, business, and innovation, keynote sessions deliver future-focused insights on the trends, challenges, and opportunities transforming the global food system.
From breakthrough technologies to evolving market dynamics, these sessions are designed to inspire strategic thinking and spark meaningful conversation across disciplines. Explore the full Keynotes Program to see speakers, session formats, and topics driving the future of food.
Ignite Sessions
NEW for 2026
Build the business and leadership skills that power innovation at IFT FIRST. Ignite Sessions are a new professional development experience designed to help attendees strengthen strategic thinking, communication, and leadership capabilities—skills essential for success across today’s food system.
Open to all attendees, Ignite Sessions complement IFT FIRST’s scientific and technical programming by focusing on the people skills that turn ideas into impact.
Taste of Science
See it. Taste it. Understand it.
Taste of Science brings food science to life through short, experiential sessions in the expo hall that spotlight ingredients, formulation, and innovation—each paired with a tasting or sample. In just minutes, discover how ingredients and science work together, then experience the result. From formulation to flavor, these sessions turn innovation into something you can see and taste.
Explore quick, ingredient-focused presentations and don’t miss the self-guided Sample Tour.
Solutions Showcase
Where Food Innovation Meets Real‑World Application
Discover breakthrough ingredient, process, and technology solutions shaping the future of food at the Solutions Showcase—a curated series of short, science‑based presentations.
Led by supply chain innovators and presented by Food Technology magazine, these sessions focus on how today’s most pressing product development, safety, nutrition, and operational challenges are being solved—not sales pitches.
Explore practical insights, applied case examples, and emerging approaches you can take back to your business.
Ideal for: product developers, R&D leaders, food scientists, manufacturers, and decision‑makers seeking actionable solutions and strategic partners.
Networking at the IFT Hub
Make the IFT Hub your networking headquarters! The IFT Hub is a gateway to amplify your impact on global food systems. From membership and networking to cutting-edge tools designed to advance your career, you can find it all in the Hub.
Connect with peers, join the fun with interactive trivia, and more - all designed to help you build lasting professional relationships.
Monday & Tuesday | Times TBD | Open To All Attendees | Conveniently located in the Main Concourse
