The essential food innovation event: IFT FIRST returns to Chicago this July – Latest Food News Update

IFT FIRST returns to Chicago this July, drawing more than 16,000 top decision-makers and food professionals who will convene to explore groundbreaking advances presented by over 1,000 exhibitors. This powerful gathering showcases cutting-edge solutions, technologies, products, scientific programming, and ingredients that are actively reshaping the future of the global food system, making it the essential industry event of 2025.

At IFT FIRST, attendees can accomplish more business development in three focused days that might otherwise take months of separate meetings.

For product developers and R&D professionals, the expo floor serves as an invaluable resource for discovering novel ingredients, processing technologies, and packaging solutions. For executives and decision-makers, the strategic insights gained from thought leaders and peers can inform critical business decisions in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

In today’s unpredictable business landscape, the food industry faces unprecedented challenges requiring collective wisdom and support. IFT FIRST arrives at a critical moment when in-person connection matters more than ever.

Beyond the scientific program and business opportunities, this event represents a powerful moment for the food system community to rally together, offering support and collaborative solutions to shared challenges.

The connections formed at McCormick Place July 13-16 will strengthen the entire food ecosystem at a time when having a community to lean on matters most. As consumer expectations evolve rapidly and regulatory landscapes shift, professionals who attend IFT FIRST gain not just technical knowledge but the irreplaceable support of peers navigating similar experiences.

This year, more than ever, attendance represents both an investment in individual professional growth and a commitment to strengthening the resilience of the global food community.

Where Innovation, Science & Community Converge

What sets IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology) apart is its unique ability to convene the entire global food system community alongside a robust, continuously evolving scientific program. Those who haven’t attended in recent years might be surprised by the significant transformation of the scientific programming.

Based on direct attendee feedback, in recent years the event has implemented several key improvements:

• Reduction in competing sessions, allowing participants to access more relevant content
• Simplified, more engaging session formats that enhance learning and retention
• Clear access to deep scientific content for specialists seeking advanced knowledge

The comprehensive scientific program features more than 100 sessions across various formats, including keynotes from industry visionaries, technical deep dives, and interactive forums. Additionally, over 500 research posters showcase emerging science and innovation, providing a glimpse into future directions and possibilities.

For 2025, several new enhancements promise to deliver even greater value to attendees. The new attendee app powered by Swapcard features AI-powered matchmaking technology to connect participants with relevant exhibitors. Attendees can pre-schedule meetings with chosen companies, optimizing valuable time on the expo floor.

An exclusive VIP Experience (limited to 200 participants) available during registration offers priority badge pick-up, access to a premium lounge with refreshments, along with guaranteed front-row seating at keynote presentations and more.

Beyond the business advantages, the event provides access to groundbreaking innovations and insights. With representation from over 90 countries, the global perspective offered at IFT FIRST is particularly valuable in today’s interconnected food system.

In today’s challenging business environment, the food industry faces unprecedented pressures. IFT FIRST offers a unique opportunity for professionals to find collaborative solutions and forge meaningful connections at a time when community support is more valuable than ever.

Industry professionals interested in experiencing this premier food science and innovation event can register at iftevent.org.