Transformation Via Collaboration + Innovation

Get ready for science in action at IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo in Chicago July 14–17.

By Julie Larson Bricher, Kelly Hensel, Emily Little

May 31, 2024

Innovation has always been at the forefront for making things faster, cheaper, more delicious. Food and beverage product developers are called upon to innovate to get market share and drive profits. But more and more, science is needed to help regenerate the land, create more clean water, maximize health, and minimize waste. From novel processing techniques to sustainable food packaging, multifunctional ingredients, genomic mapping, or health and nutrition breakthroughs, collaboration and innova…

Premium Content

You've reached your monthly limit of free articles.

Access Food Technology

Presidents Message

Navigating Tipping Points Through Community May 9, 2025

Issues and Insights

Nourishing Food System Transformation April 25, 2025

On the Agenda for Students

Students interested in pursuing a career in the science of food will get a firsthand view of the field during IFT FIRST. They will have the opportunity to meet working professionals in the industry, showcase their latest research, and compete with students from other chapters of the Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA).

Student programming will begin on Sunday, July 14, with the IFTSA Student Kick-Off. This event, located in the student lounge, will give students the opportunity to introduce themselves to other young professionals and learn more about what IFT FIRST has to offer. Immediately following, PepsiCo will host a meet and greet for students to converse with the company’s employees and ask questions about the company’s products, culture, and career opportunities. There will be additional meet and greets on Monday and Tuesday.

Over the course of the event, IFTSA will be hosting six competitions, including three product development competitions, two research competitions, and the College Bowl. The 34th Annual IFTSA and Mars Product Development Competition returns on Monday, July 15, to give students an opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas and apply their skills to real-world situations. Additionally, the Smart Snacks for Kids Product Development Competition and Developing Solutions for Developing Countries Product Development Competition will take place on Monday, July 15, and Tuesday, July 16, respectively.

Presentation of awards and the final rounds of the College Bowl will take place on Tuesday evening during the IFTSA Student Closing Ceremony and Reception.