IFT FIRST (Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology) is the top global event where the best experts in food science, technology, and business come together. As we prepare for the 2026 event, Shafi Gluco Chem is focusing on how to change the global food system by turning new research into the products that will be in stores in the future.
Dates, Location & Format
Event: IFT FIRST 2026 – Annual Event & Expo
Dates: July 12–15, 2026
Venue: McCormick Place Convention Center
City: Chicago, Illinois, USA
McCormick Place is one of the largest convention centers in North America, and this makes it the best venue for an international food innovation event. The event will provide an opportunity for understanding and for finding new products, and this will assist professionals in discovering new solutions and information as it becomes available while reviewing the ift first schedule.
Why IFT FIRST Matters for Industry Professionals
IFT FIRST is more than an event; it’s a platform where scientific research transforms into actionable business outcomes. Key benefits for professionals include:
1. Insight into Food Science & Technology
Sessions provide an in-depth exploration of:
- Novel processing technologies.
- Ingredient functionality and clean-label reformulation.
- Improvements in keeping food safe and following the rules.
- Plans for being environmentally friendly and new ideas for healthy eating.
These talks give helpful information for planning products, research and development, and how to remain ahead of competitors while navigating the ift first schedule.
2. Sourcing & Product Discovery
Many exhibitors display new ideas in:
- Functional and special ingredients.
- Natural and plant-based choices.
- Technologies for dealing, packing, and automated systems.
Decision-makers can directly assess solutions for making products, quality, and how well things run as part of the ift first schedule.
3. Networking & Collaboration
IFT FIRST attracts:
- Food manufacturers and R&D leaders.
- Supply chain and procurement executives.
- Makers and suppliers of ingredients.
- Experts in quality control and regulations.
- Startup innovators.
There are a lot of various people attending this event, so it is an incredible place to network and get new business relationships and opportunities.
Industry Trends Highlighted
Some of the trends that will be referred to at IFT FIRST 2026 include:
- Regulatory Evolution: Remaining ahead of clean label and compliance trends.
- AI and Data-Driven Innovation: Creating better product development and operations.
- Sustainability and Transparency: Fulfilling the requirement for honest and responsible food sourcing.
It is vital to attend the IFT FIRST 2026 conference to learn about the industry because all the above-mentioned trends are related to the way the product is manufactured or the way the business is run.
Meet Shafi Gluco Chem at Booth S-1553
Shafi Gluco Chem, a trusted source for premium quality food ingredients, is exhibiting at Booth S-1553, and people can look into:
- Syrups and sweeteners for drinks, baked goods, and candies.
- Ingredients that help make food in today’s factories.
- New ideas for products that are easy to understand and work really well.
- Team meetings to talk about getting materials, cooking food, and working together.
Maximizing Your ROI
To get the most from IFT FIRST:
- Align sessions with business priorities.
- Meet suppliers and technology partners 1:1.
- Look for new ideas in improving the way we work and the way our products perform.
- Take advantage of networking to develop key relationships.
- Plan meetings around the official IFT first dates to maximize time at the event.
Conclusion
IFT FIRST 2026 is an event that every food industry professional must attend. It brings together the elements of research, science, and business, which helps to create an environment that is necessary for the creation of innovations. For businesses, the event is an opportunity to stay at the cutting edge of the latest developments in food science and technology, while for food suppliers like Shafi Gluco Chem, the event is an opportunity to showcase the ingredients that make the future of the food industry, keeping in mind the IFT first dates.
Shafi Gluco Chem offers innovative, clean-label sweetener and ingredient solutions for the food industry of the future.
FAQs
1. Where Is IFT FIRST 2026?
A: At McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
2. What Is IFT First in Chicago?
A: IFT FIRST is the premier global food science and technology event.
3. What Is the Purpose of IFT First?
A: To connect food science research with industry innovation, solutions, and networking opportunities.
4. How Many Sessions Are at IFT First?
A: Numerous sessions covering food technology, sustainability, safety, ingredients, and product innovation.
5. How Long Does IFT First Last?
A: Four days, from July 12 to July 15.
