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The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a non-profit scientific association committed to advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system, is excited to unveil the latest in food and drink innovation and trends to global food and beverage manufacturers, processors and ingredient suppliers.

The showcase will take place at IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science and Technology) Annual Event and Expo, the leading food science and innovation expo being held 12-15 July 2026 at McCormick Place in Chicago.

As the premier gathering of scientific, technical and business leaders, IFT FIRST offers direct access to cutting-edge insights on supply chain resilience, emerging technologies, sustainability and global market shifts – all grounded in rigorous science and practical application.

Attendees connect with peers and cross-sector innovators, explore solutions to today’s most pressing challenges (from ingredient sourcing and logistics disruptions to regulatory pressures) and uncover new opportunities to drive efficiency, transparency and growth.

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.

New in 2026, all scientific programming will take place directly in the Expo Hall, offering attendees the unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge sessions at the heart of the event.

By integrating scientific discussions and presentations within the expo environment, participants can seamlessly connect with experts, explore new technologies and experience the vibrant innovation showcased throughout IFT FIRST.

IFT CEO Christie Tarantino-Dean said: “By making scientific programming more accessible, we’re ensuring that all attendees can engage with keynotes and breakout sessions and more easily connect what they’re learning with the innovations they’re seeing in the Expo Hall. This year, we’re also expanding networking spaces and increasing curated Expo Hall tours – changes that directly reflect attendee feedback and our ongoing evolution to best meet their needs.”

The Pitch, the rapid-pitch competition showcasing Start-up Pavilion product innovations in the early stages – from pre-seed to growth stage – returns once again year. Each year, up to 100 start-ups showcase their innovations in the Start-up Pavilion to investors, buyers, ingredient providers, business professionals, product developers and food scientists.

As part of their exhibition, companies can participate in the pitch competition for a chance at the $10,000 cash prize and $2,500 each for the two runners-up.

Last year’s winner was Plantible for Rubi Protein, its functional and nutritional plant-based protein ingredient that food manufacturers to replace eggs, dairy ingredients and synthetic emulsifiers with a single clean ingredient.

Other previous winners include Scentian Bio (2024) for its synthesised insect olfactory receptor biosensor that can measure smell and taste, and Helaina (2023) for its work around using precision fermentation to manufacture proteins at scale, starting with Lactoferrin, a protein that supports cognitive health and antimicrobial defense while enhancing nutrient absorption.

IFT FIRST will also feature numerous scientific sessions on global innovation in the food and beverage market, including:

• How are emerging AI tools transforming food innovation end-to-end, from consumer understanding to scaled innovation?

• What regulatory pathways and innovations are needed to accelerate novel technologies in global food innovation?

• How can stronger academia and industry partnerships accelerate food innovation?

IFT FIRST is where science meets application, where innovation finds its market and where the global food system comes together to solve what’s next. To register for IFT FIRST or to learn more, visit our website.