Exhibition Info
IFT First 2026 Chicago
| Date: | 12 Jul – 15 Jul 2026 |
| Venue: | Chicago, United states |
INTODUCTION
IFT First 2026 will take place in Chicago, Illinois, in July 2026. This premier event, organized by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), brings together professionals, researchers, and industry leaders in food science and technology to examine emerging innovations, research developments, and key trends shaping the global food industry. IFT First continues to serve as a critical platform for networking, education, and uncovering advanced solutions that strengthen food safety, quality, and sustainability.
With a broad range of exhibitors and an extensive educational program, IFT First 2026 provides exceptional opportunities for professionals to collaborate, connect, and expand their expertise in food science.
Event Highlights
- Extensive Exhibitor Showcase: Explore a diverse lineup of exhibitors unveiling cutting-edge products, advanced technologies, and innovative services shaping food science and technology in 2026.
- Educational Sessions: Participate in expert-led seminars and interactive workshops covering food safety advancements, nutrition trends, and next-generation product development.
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with thousands of food science professionals, including researchers, academics, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders from around the world.
- Live Demonstrations: Take part in immersive, hands-on demonstrations showcasing breakthrough food technologies and real-world applications.
- Innovation Awards: Honor excellence in food science with prestigious awards recognizing impactful research, products, and industry contributions.
- Sustainability Focus: Discover forward-thinking sustainable practices and transformative solutions driving environmental responsibility in the food sector.
- Keynote Presentations: Hear from global thought leaders sharing insights on emerging challenges, opportunities, and the future of food science.
- Start-Up Showcase: Experience the energy of emerging startups presenting disruptive technologies and innovative solutions for the evolving food industry.
Why Attend
- Discover Innovations: Explore next-generation technologies and breakthrough solutions transforming the global food science industry in 2026.
- Expert Knowledge: Learn from world-class industry leaders through immersive educational sessions, panels, and hands-on workshops.
- Networking Potential: Build meaningful connections with innovators, decision-makers, and professionals across the global food science community.
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in live demonstrations and interactive showcases to see cutting-edge food technologies in real-world action.
- Sustainability Focus: Stay informed on regenerative, climate-smart, and sustainable practices shaping the future of the food industry.
- Market Insights: Gain strategic insights into emerging trends, consumer shifts, and future developments driving food science forward.
- Recognition of Excellence: Celebrate groundbreaking achievements and innovations in food science through prestigious industry awards.
Industry Growth and Market Information
The global food science and technology market is forecast to surpass $1 trillion by 2028, fueled by rising consumer demand for safe, nutritious, and sustainable food solutions. IFT First 2026 continues to play a pivotal role in this expansion by connecting global professionals with cutting-edge innovations, research, and emerging trends shaping the future of food.
Exhibition stands contractors in Chicago remain vital in 2026, helping exhibitors strengthen brand visibility and effectively showcase breakthrough technologies and solutions across the food science and technology ecosystem.
In recent years, the industry has seen accelerated advancements in food safety technologies, functional and personalized nutrition, alternative proteins, and sustainable packaging. IFT First 2026 serves as a key platform for exploring these developments, encouraging knowledge exchange and strategic collaboration.
In 2025, IFT First welcomed over 25,000 attendees, and participation in 2026 is expected to meet or exceed this level as global interest in food innovation continues to rise. The event consistently fosters collaboration, education, and progress—elements that are essential to driving long-term growth and resilience within the food science and technology industry.
