The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) will host IFT FIRST Annual Event & Expo 2026 from 12–15 July 2026 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. The event will bring together more than 1,000 exhibitors alongside food scientists, product developers, ingredient suppliers, manufacturers, retailers and procurement professionals from around the world. This year’s edition introduces a new event format that integrates scientific programming directly onto the exhibition floor, aiming to connect research with commercial innovation more closely.
What is IFT FIRST?
IFT FIRST stands for Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. Organized annually by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), it is one of the world’s leading food science and technology events. The exhibition combines ingredient sourcing, food manufacturing technologies, packaging solutions, research presentations and professional networking under one roof, making it an important meeting point for the global food and FMCG industries.
At a glance
- Held from 12–15 July 2026 in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
- Hosted by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).
- Takes place at McCormick Place Convention Center.
- Features more than 1,000 exhibitors from across the global food industry.
- Introduces scientific sessions directly onto the Expo Hall floor for the first time.
- Covers topics including AI, clean-label development, food safety, ingredient innovation and sustainability.
- Brings together food manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, researchers and technology providers.
Why is IFT FIRST 2026 important?
IFT FIRST serves as a global platform where food companies explore new ingredients, processing technologies, packaging innovations and research that can influence future product development. The event attracts decision-makers involved in food manufacturing, supermarket supply chains, private label development and FMCG innovation.
As consumer expectations continue to evolve, companies are looking for practical solutions that improve product quality, efficiency and regulatory compliance while meeting demand for healthier and more sustainable food products.
What is new at IFT FIRST 2026?
One of the most significant changes for 2026 is the integration of scientific programming directly into the exhibition floor. Instead of separating conference sessions from the commercial exhibition, attendees will be able to move between educational presentations, research posters and exhibitor stands throughout the event.
The updated format is designed to encourage greater interaction between researchers, technology developers, ingredient suppliers and food manufacturers during product development discussions.
Which topics will shape the event?
The 2026 programme highlights several of the food industry’s most important areas of innovation. Scientific sessions and exhibitions will explore artificial intelligence in food research and development, clean-label reformulation, food safety, sustainability, ingredient functionality and emerging processing technologies.
Visitors will also have opportunities to explore specialist areas through curated Expo Floor Tours covering subjects such as startups, proteins, AI and technology, and flavours and sensory science.
Why does the event matter for supermarkets and FMCG companies?
Although IFT FIRST is rooted in food science, many of the technologies and ingredients introduced at the event eventually reach supermarket shelves through branded and private label products. Retailers increasingly depend on suppliers that can deliver cleaner labels, improved nutrition, longer shelf life, sustainable packaging and efficient manufacturing.
For FMCG manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and retail buyers, the exhibition offers an opportunity to identify emerging technologies that could influence future product launches and supply chain strategies.
What happens next?
Registration is underway ahead of IFT FIRST 2026, with activities beginning on 12 July and the exhibition opening on 13 July. During the four-day programme, exhibitors, researchers and industry professionals will showcase new ingredients, technologies and scientific developments that could influence future food products, manufacturing and retail supply chains. As one of the United States’ leading food trade events, IFT FIRST 2026 is expected to highlight innovations that may shape product development and sourcing decisions across the global FMCG and supermarket sectors.
Editor’s note: This article is based on information from the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), IFT FIRST 2026 event details, and McCormick Place event information.
