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Toolkits
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has developed toolkits about important topics in the science of food that you can use to dispel common misconceptions around important food-related topics. Check back periodically as new toolkits will continue to be added.
Toolkits
The items in these toolkits have been assembled to provide you fact-based, scientific resources on this issue for your personal education and when communicating with different audiences
Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering
The use of genetic modification techniques and technologies to enhance or produce food and ingredients, often referred to as biotechnology, genetic engineering (GE), or “GMOs,” has often been subject to controversy and misinformation. This toolkit has been developed to help dispel misinformation and provide helpful, shareable resources.
Blockchain and Emerging Technology
In the last two decades, there have been significant investments in digitization and logistics that have spurred the proliferation of many innovative, but highly technical solutions. Recordkeeping regulatory requirements and the ever-present need to mitigate food safety risk have facilitated the demand to utilize these technologies in food operations. The food industry has complex supply chains, diverse technology adoption, high throughput, and smaller profit margins.
Date Labeling
Because date labeling terminology and use varies so extensively in the United States and other countries, there is considerable misunderstanding about what it means with regard to quality or safety of the food or beverage product.
Food Processing
Food processing can be defined as the use of methods and techniques involving equipment, energy, and tools to transform agricultural products such as grains, meats, vegetables, fruits, and milk into food ingredients or processed food products. This tool kit provides helpful fact-based information to assist with communication on this topic.
Nutrition Facts Label
The resources assembled may be useful in outreach or communication about how to interpret and use the Nutrition Facts Label in making informed food choices to follow healthy dietary patterns.
Traceability Technologies
In this toolkit, we highlight the tools the Global Food Traceability Center (GFTC) has created to help you better understand and conceptualize the design of traceability systems. These resources can also be used for a variety of cases including food safety, illegal/fraudulent products, and sustainability. The toolkit covers diverse food products (produce, dairy, seafood, etc).
Food Processing
We hear more and more about the importance of eating for your gut, but what does that really mean? And why is your gut so important? IFT has compiled various resources and scientific information about the gut microbiota to help you better understand the microbiota and why gut health is so integral to health and an overall sense of well-being.
Got a topic you need a toolkit for?
Shoot us an email at info@ift.org and share new toolkit topic ideas with us.
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