If you work in food science, ingredients, manufacturing, R&D, or nutrition, or anywhere in the food supply chain at all, the IFT trade show in Chicago this July is the one event you really cannot afford to miss. The Institute of Food Technologists’ Chicago event operates on a massive scale. In this event, over 15,500 food technology professionals from over 80 countries, and 1,000 exhibitors will align under one roof at McCormick Place.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you arrive. From what is actually new at IFT First 2026 to exactly where to find us on the IFT First show floor, we have you covered.
What Is IFT First and Why Does It Matter?
The IFT First show is the annual flagship expo of the Institute of Food Technologists. It is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most respected food science organisations.
FIRST stands for:
F stands for Food
I stands for Improved
R stands for Research
S stands for Science,
T stands for Technology.
So, who is this even relevant to?
In this event, you’ll find food scientists, R&D teams, ingredient suppliers, manufacturers, and startup founders. The IFT trade show consistently ranks among the top 3 global food industry events by attendance (IFT, 2026).
IFT First 2026 Key Event Details at a Glance
IFT First 2026 is shaping up to be a highly streamlined event. If you are planning your trip to IFT First Chicago, here are the core facts you need before the IFT trade show kicks off.
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | IFT First Annual Event & Expo 2026 |
| Dates | 12–15 July 2026 |
| Location | McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Organiser | Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) |
| Expected Attendance | 15,500+ food professionals |
| Countries Represented | 80+ |
| Number of Exhibitors | 1,000+ |
| Educational Sessions | 100+ sessions + 450+ research posters |
| New for 2026 | All scientific programming inside the expo hall |
| Official Website | ift.org |
What Can Attendees Expect at IFT First Trade Show Chicago 2026?
Attendees heading to IFT First Chicago 2026 can expect a massive layout shift: for the first time, all scientific programming happens directly inside the expo hall. You won’t be sprinting between venues anymore. You can listen to a research presentation and immediately walk over to an exhibitor offering that exact solution at IFT First 2026.
A few other things to look out for at the IFT First show:
- Networking Lounges: Set up right around each learning zone to keep conversations flowing.
- Startup Pavilion: 100 food-tech startups bringing solutions you’ll likely see dominating the market in 2–3 years.
- Solutions Showcase: Live case studies and demos proving how specific ingredients solve real R&D headaches.
What New Trends in IFT 2026 Will Be Showcased?
At IFT First 2026, you will see five major trends shaping the global food industry right now. These cover:
- Clean Label and Transparency: Buyers want shorter ingredient lists. They want naturally processed solutions.
- Plant-Based Proteins: The shift from niche to everyday food formats continues.
- Food Safety & Compliance: Navigating cross-border safety standards.
- Functional Ingredients: Ingredients need to do more to think about gut health or energy management.
- Supply Chain Resilience: Buyers are asking the hard questions about environmental footprints and sourcing.
Who Are the Key Exhibitors at IFT 2026?
Key exhibitors at IFT First 2026 include major ingredient giants like ADM, Cargill, Ingredion, DSM, Givaudan, and Glanbia Nutritionals, alongside more than 1,000 specialized suppliers. Whether you are looking for global leaders or fresh faces in the Startup Pavilion, the IFT Show Chicago floor covers it all.
Shafi Gluco Chem Spotlight: As a global leader in Rice and Tapioca food ingredients, we will be at Booth S-1553. We have been exporting to 90+ countries since 2003, holding strict FSSC 22000 and ISO 9001 certifications.
How Can Attendees Prepare for the IFT Trade Show?
To prepare for the IFT trade show, you need to register early at ift.org, download the session schedule, and prioritize your exhibitor list by category. The key to a successful IFT First Chicago trip? It’s all about booking your meetings ahead of time.
Here’s a quick guide to get the most out of the IFT First show:
- Step 1: Register early to get early-bird savings.
- Step 2: Use the IFT app to map out your session schedule.
- Step 3: Get a floor plan and mark the booths you absolutely want to visit.
- Step 4: Book meetings in advance. The best chats are planned.
- Step 5: Sort your accommodation. Hotels near McCormick Place fill up fast.
- Step 6: Arrive ready to network. Condé Nast Traveler ranked Chicago the #1 Best Large U.S. City for a reason, so enjoy the networking events.
Meet Shafi Gluco Chem at IFT First 2026: Booth S-1553
If you are coming to IFT First 2026, make sure to stop by. We are bringing our full range of clean-label, non-GMO, and organic certified ingredients to IFT First Chicago. If you are an R&D manager or procurement buyer navigating the IFT show in Chicago, we have what you need.
- Rice Syrups: Natural sweeteners with 40% lower sugar versions available.
- Rice Proteins: Plant-based power for sports nutrition and functional foods.
- Tapioca Starch & Maltodextrin: Gluten-free, clean-label carriers and texturizers.
- Milk Powders: Dairy alternatives for beverage formulation.
Ready for Chicago?
Shafi Gluco Chem IFT First 2026
12–15 July 2026
Booth S-1553
McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, USA
FAQs
1. What can attendees expect at the IFT First Trade Show Chicago 2026?
Attendees can expect a major shift in format, with all scientific programming moving directly onto the expo floor to integrate research and application.
2. Who are the key exhibitors at IFT 2026?
Over 1000 companies will join the IFT 2026. However, key exhibitors are ingredient giants,
flavor and fragrance leaders and specialty solutions companies.
3. How can attendees prepare for the IFT trade show?
To prepare for the IFT trade show, you need to register early at ift.org, download the session schedule, and prioritize your exhibitor list by category. Book your hotels near the site and take your time exploring the exhibit.
4. What new trends in IFT 2026 will be showcased?
IFT FIRST 2026 will showcase trends centered on accelerated innovation and the practical application of technology to meet global challenges.
