The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a nonprofit scientific organization committed to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, is proud to share a sneak peek at a few of the supplier scientific sessions and demonstrations that will take place at IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo, the popular food technology showcase being held July 13-16, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. The centerpiece of the event is the food science and innovation expo featuring exhibitors from across the global food system sharing the latest in ingredients, equipment, processing, technology, safety, R&D, and packaging solutions.
This includes the Taste of Science stage where attendees can enjoy an array of ingredient samples, interactive demos, and product tastings; the Solutions Showcase stage where presenters dive into the challenges and opportunities in the science of food; as well as the Hot Topics Studio, which offers a more relaxed, informal atmosphere as top experts “chat” with attendees about important topics impacting the food industry today.
“One of the most exciting aspects of IFT FIRST is the opportunity it creates for attendees to explore the science and innovation behind some of the industry’s most forward-thinking products," said Christie Tarantino-Dean, CEO, Institute of Food Technologists. "These demonstrations aren’t just about what’s new – they’re a springboard for bigger ideas, deeper connections, and opportunities to elevate product development and drive progress. IFT FIRST is where the future of food begins to take shape – it truly is Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology.”
Here is a glimpse at some of the can’t-miss supplier sessions at IFT FIRST:
FoodChain ID: Automate Your Insights: Practical AI That Puts Knowledge to Work
Join a panel of food and beverage industry experts, including a digital transformation expert from FoodChain ID, to learn about a new innovative AI-powered formulation guidance tool at “Automate Your Insights: Practical AI That Puts Knowledge to Work” on Wednesday, July 16, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Discover how an embedded AI model is accelerating product development, reducing compliance risk and integrating institutional know-how, enabling teams to make confident decisions at speed. FoodChain ID Mentor turns SOPs, regulatory protocols, and organizational knowledge into real-time formulation advice. The AI innovation provides a practical approach to ensure that guidance is immediately applicable and beneficial for the day-to-day challenges faced by food and beverage product developers. By combining FoodChain ID’s deep industry expertise, expert-curated data and rulesets, and a company’s own criteria, FoodChain ID Mentor delivers highly actionable outcomes.
Infor: Closing the Value Gap with Technology in Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Infor, a global leader in industry-specialized business cloud software, is excited to announce its speaking session with Ruiz Foods at IFT FIRST on Monday, July 14, from 3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. The session, titled “Closing the Value Gap with Technology in Food and Beverage Manufacturing,” will explore how top performing organizations tackle challenges like rising costs, regulatory pressures, and supply chain disruptions. Attendees will gain insights into the real-world application of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) and its crucial role in driving industry transformation. Discover how technology like PLM and AI identify growth opportunities, enhance business agility, and streamline processes to expedite market entry. Visit Infor at Booth S3858 and schedule a meeting for more information.
Ingredion: Solve the Texture Equation – Solutions That Drive Consumer Preference
Join Ingredion’s experts at IFT FIRST as they decode the Texture Equation, revealing how insights-driven expertise, technical mastery, and comprehensive solutions combine to create exceptional eating experiences. Discover how consumer and market trends are shaping the demand for products with superior texture and learn how these unique qualities can set products apart in the market. Ingredion experts will discuss how the right texture can enhance both the sensory experience and the functionality of food products.
POM Wonderful Specialty Ingredients: Fruit to Function: Enhancing Shelf Life, Sensory Quality, and Sustainability
Discover how pomegranate extract is reshaping food and beverage innovation at IFT FIRST in Chicago on July 14. This science-forward session explores its impact on flavor, nutrition, and sustainability. Chef Josh Park of Suji’s Korean Kitchen will share how Suji’s integrated POMxL extract into their popular 5-Spice Pork Bao Buns at Costco. Ideal for developers and R&D professionals, don’t miss this dynamic look at functional ingredients in action. To learn more, stop by Booth S1707 or go to https://specialtyingredients.pomwonderful.com.
Tate & Lyle: The Power of Stevia Reb M: Sweetness, Functionality, and a Resilient Supply Chain
Stevia Reb M is transforming beverage innovation by enabling sugar reduction without compromising on taste or mouthfeel. This Taste of Science Session explores how Tate & Lyle and Manus deliver an all-Americas supply of Stevia Reb M – ensuring reliable sourcing, consistent quality, and multifunctional performance. Attendees will gain insight into how Reb M enhances sweetness perception, supports clean-label claims, and meets sensory expectations in beverages. Technical aspects of formulation, regulatory labeling, and flavor optimization will be covered, along with strategies for maximizing functionality across product lines. As sugar reduction and supply chain stability remain top-of-mind, this session offers a forward-looking roadmap for crafting beverages that deliver both consumer appeal and operational resilience.
IFT FIRST unites top experts throughout the science of food disciplines. Through cutting-edge scientific programming and multi-disciplinary discussions, IFT FIRST addresses the biggest issues impacting the food industry across novel technology and innovation, health and nutrition, sustainability and climate, food safety, and consumer insights. The dynamic expo floor, a celebration of the latest food innovations and technologies, features some of the top food, health, and wellness companies in the world launching or showcasing the products and solutions that will help usher in a new era of food.
Register for IFT FIRST. IFT members receive special pricing on registration. To learn more, email membershipinfo@ift.org.
About IFT FIRST
IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo is one of the most influential food technology events in the world as it unites instrumental leaders across the global food system to help shape the future of food. Each year, IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology) convenes prominent food, health, and nutrition professionals across industry, academia, and government to collaborate, innovate, and educate. IFT FIRST features a dynamic expo floor that connects many of the top global food and wellness companies with buyers and those with purchasing influence, while also offering cutting-edge scientific programming that explores the hottest topics across the science of food. IFT FIRST also offers valuable networking opportunities, unique food competitions, and engaging interactive experiences to connect, enrich, and empower attendees in their missions to transform the global food system. For more information, go to www.iftevent.org.
About Institute of Food Technologists
Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has served as the voice of the global food science community. IFT advocates for science, technology, and research to address the world’s greatest food challenges, guiding our community of more than 200,000. IFT convenes professionals from around the world – from producers and product developers to innovators and researchers across food, nutrition, and public health – with a shared mission to help create a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and accessible to all. IFT provides its growing community spanning academia, industry, and government with the resources, connections, and opportunities necessary to stay ahead of a rapidly evolving food system as IFT helps feed the minds that feed the world. For more information, please visit ift.org.
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