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IFT FIRST (Food improved by research, science and technology) uniquely combines robust scientific programming with comprehensive business development opportunities, creating a powerful draw for professionals from over 90 countries. This global event gives valuable insights into food system challenges and collaborative solutions that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

To help you navigate the event, the new IFT FIRST 2025 event app features AI-driven matchmaking technology, connecting participants with relevant exhibitors from more than 1,000 companies – including 189 first-time exhibitors bringing fresh innovations to the expo floor.

This technology enables pre-scheduled meetings to optimise your time on the floor while maximising professional networking opportunities. Search “IFT FIRST 2025” in your app store to download and get started planning your experience.

As the food industry faces extraordinary challenges – from evolving consumer demands to regulatory shifts – there's never been a more critical time to attend IFT FIRST. It's where crucial conversations about the future of food are happening, and your participation is essential. In-person collaboration matters more than ever, and attendees gain not just technical insights but the irreplaceable support of peers navigating similar experiences.

This emphasis on working together is exemplified in Community Conversations – a new offering at IFT FIRST that transforms traditional presentations into interactive problem-solving sessions where you'll gain fresh insights while sharing your valuable perspective.

Beyond professional development and business opportunities, IFT FIRST represents something more crucial in today's unpredictable landscape: community. As industry professionals face similar challenge – from supply chain disruptions to changing consumer expectations – the connections formed at this event strengthen the entire food ecosystem.

For industry professionals seeking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field while building meaningful professional relationships, IFT FIRST offers an opportunity to accomplish both objectives simultaneously. To see all the professional development and networking opportunities available at IFT FIRST, visit the official agenda.

Register now for IFT FIRST here. 

IFT workshops

And there’s no better way to maximise your IFT FIRST experience than with our In-Person Workshops. You count on IFT for research and learning opportunities – especially when it comes to keeping pace with the unprecedented changes impacting the food science community. That’s why IFT’s In-Person Workshops for 2025 include a mix of our most requested courses as well as sessions focused on helping you navigate unprecedented change.

All in-person workshops are separately ticketed, two-day courses and are held on 12-13 July, in Chicago. Workshop registration includes a networking happy hour for registered participants and instructors following day 1. It’s the perfect lead-in to IFT FIRST on 13-16 July. Register for IFT Workshops here.