As a visionary organization, IFT is feeding the minds that feed the world. Members are at the heart of all we do.
Envision what the very best minds involved in the science of food can achieve when they work together: providing each and every person on the planet with a safe, nutritious, and sustainable food supply. Since 1939, IFT has been advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system by creating a dynamic forum where individuals from more than 95 countries can collaborate, l
earn, and grow, transforming scientific knowledge into innovative solutions for the benefit of people around the world. We help them enhance their careers and make greater contributions to their organizations. Through forums such as the world’s largest annual food science event, publications such as Food Technology magazine, and other unique resources, we enable them to enhance their knowledge and expand their professional connections, both domestically and abroad. We help highlight the impact and important societal contributions made by professionals involved the science of food, and attract the brightest minds to the profession from related disciplines. And we support the contribution of evidence-based science to the public dialogue on food issues. Together, we are creating a world where science and innovation are universally viewed as essential to a safe, nutritious, and sustainable food supply for everyone. As a scientific society with vision, IFT is feeding the minds that feed the world. As an organization, IFT is focusing its work in four main areas, or “roles and goals.” Each is wide-reaching and helps to advance our mission. Steward for the Profession and its Community
Provide learning, networking and leadership development experiences that enable food science and technology professionals to become leaders in the global food science community. Research Champion and Innovation Catalyst
Champion emerging sciences and foster technology development, application and transfer to increase funding for food-related research and to support innovation in food science. Influential Advocate and Trusted Spokesorganization
Engage in advocacy and communication efforts that enhance recognition of the profession and result in increased understanding and application of the science of food. Global Citizen and Partner
Proactively contribute to, and be a partner for, the global advancement and application of the science of food. IFT members are the common thread binding these roles and goals. Each program, service, and initiative that we undertake is knowledge-based, mission-driven, and addresses the needs of IFT members. Whether through networking opportunities, continuing education programs, or a desire to give back to the global scientific community and the profession, our focus on these roles and goals enhances our members’ abilities to enrich the world and to be enriched by their own experiences. DISCLAIMER: As a member of the food science community, we try to stay tuned in to the discussions, chats, postings, and other happenings on the page. Comments that are unlawful, obscene, spam, or otherwise offensive to fans will be deleted. Thank you for ensuring that interactions on this page are friendly, courteous, and professional.
06/12/2026
🔍 Who decides what counts as credible science?
As public scrutiny of food and nutrition grows, building trust requires more than research alone. It requires transparency, collaboration, and open dialogue.
This IFT FIRST keynote panel brings together experts from government, academia, industry, consumer advocacy, and scientific publishing to discuss how scientific consensus informs food policy and public understanding.
⚠️ Can AI help food safety teams identify risks before contamination occurs?
Quality Assurance & Food Safety expert Jeff Varcoe believes the biggest opportunity for AI isn't replacing people. It's helping teams recognize warning signs earlier.
In this Q&A, he discusses predictive analytics, environmental monitoring, operational decision-making, and why human expertise remains essential even as AI tools become more sophisticated.
💭 The food industry's biggest questions rarely have simple answers.
That's why Hot Topics are returning to IFT FIRST.
🔥 These interactive sessions are designed around the conversations shaping the food system right now. Expect expert perspectives, audience participation, and practical takeaways you can apply in your organization.
The next wave of nonalcoholic beverages is about creating an experience. Think sensory complexity, functional ingredients, and occasion-driven formulation.
Our latest Brain Food Blog explores how beverage developers are rethinking nonalcoholic RTDs for a changing consumer landscape: https://hubs.la/Q04kQkDh0
06/08/2026
How much decision-making should companies trust to machines when public health is at stake?
Artificial intelligence is helping food companies identify patterns and potential risks earlier than ever before. But experts agree that AI should support food safety professionals, not replace them.
In the first article of our new AI & Food Safety series, industry experts discuss where AI is delivering value today, where caution is needed, and why human judgment remains critical.
Climate change is reshaping every part of the food system. 🌍
Food processors, manufacturers, distributors, and packaging innovators all play a critical role in creating a more resilient future for food.
This World Environment Day, we're highlighting six key challenges facing the middle segment of the food system, from food waste and supply chain vulnerabilities to workforce development and sustainable innovation.
🔗 Review the challenges below, then explore the full white paper for expert insights and solutions: https://hubs.la/Q04knPPz0
06/03/2026
🤔 What if you could go from a scientific session straight to the companies putting those ideas into practice?
That's exactly what's changing at IFT FIRST.
For 2026, all scientific programming will take place directly in the Expo Hall, bringing research, innovation, and solutions together in one dynamic environment.
Congress, FDA, USDA, and HHS are all weighing in on the future of food policy. 🍎⚖️
From ingredient reviews and labeling requirements to food additives and infant nutrition, these discussions have the potential to influence how food is developed, regulated, and communicated in the years ahead.
Looking for a quick way to stay informed? Our Vice President of Science and Policy breaks down seven food policy developments worth watching.
7 Food Policy Shifts Shaping the Industry Right Now
⏱️ Read time: 5-6 minutes Food policy is having a moment in Washington, and the decisions being discussed today could influence everything from ingredient reviews and food labeling to product development and consumer trust. Anna Rosales, RD, IFT's Vice President of Science and Policy, breaks dow...
06/01/2026
What does food science have to do with climate change?
Much, much more than most people realize.
IFT’s Chief Science and Technology Officer Brendan Niemira joins Earth911’s Sustainability In Your Ear podcast to discuss why food science is integral to climate solutions.
Congratulations to the IFT Mexico Section on being recognized at Expo Alimentaria Costa Rica 2026 for its work supporting food science and technological innovation across Latin America. 👏
By partnering with organizations across the region, the section continues to connect scientists, industry leaders, and food innovators around a shared mission to advance the future of food.
We love seeing food science communities come together around shared challenges and opportunities. ✨
06/09/2026
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06/01/2026
05/28/2026