Welcome to the new IFT.org
Now home to IFT FIRST
Scientific Program
What is the IFT FIRST Scientific Program?
IFT FIRST’s scientific programming is where it all happens – bold ideas, cutting-edge research, and a spirit of collaboration focused on connecting global food system communities. Curate your IFT FIRST experience to be most meaningful for you.
New for 2026: Programming Meets the Expo Hall
For the first time at IFT FIRST, all scientific programming will happen directly in the expo hall — creating seamless connections between research and real-world application. See cutting-edge science, then immediately explore 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 (New – rotations!) – Explore traditional poster displays refreshed throughout the day (Schedule to be announced)
- 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.
Explore the conversations shaping the future of food.
Keynote Sessions
Each session at IFT FIRST is based on five focus areas:
- New Technology & Innovation
- Sustainability & Climate
- Health & Nutrition
- Food Safety
- Consumer Insights & Education
Topics include the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), global and consumer-centric innovation, science-based approaches to prevent foodborne illness, digitalization and disruption, food as medicine, and more.
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.
Taste of Science & Sample Tour
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.
All Scientific Programming can be found in the Expo Hall for 2026
Equitable education for all and research to real-world applications at your fingertips!
