first (formerly IFT Food Expo)

IFT FIRST: Annual Event & Expo, formerly known as IFT Food Expo, takes its name from the acronym FIRST, which stands for Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. The event is organized by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT). The upcoming edition is scheduled for July 11 to July 14, 2027, at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, United States, in the South Hall and the South & North Buildings.

The exhibition draws researchers, scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, food scientists, R&D leaders, ingredient manufacturers, product developers, quality assurance professionals, processing experts, regulatory specialists, and food technologists from the global food industry. In 2025, over 217,000 sales leads were generated, 84% of attendees held Net Buying Influence, 50% had buying influence exceeding $1 million, 40% were first-time participants, and 15% were executive contacts. Core exhibit sectors span food ingredients, equipment, processing, technology and packaging solutions, ingredient innovation including alternative proteins and bio-manufacturing, functional food and beverage additives, sports nutrition, custom flavor innovations, HVP and yeast extract products, laboratory facilities, and research equipment.

Concurrent programs include Scientific Sessions, Innovation Hub, Startup Pavilion, Keynote presentations, IFT Workshops, Science FIRST sessions, Business FIRST stage, Ignite Sessions, topic-based networking sessions, 1:1 scheduled meetings, topic-based expo tours, Belonging Bash, Poster presentations, and Solutions Showcase Presentation. IFT members receive up to a 30% registration discount. There is no Expo Only registration option; all attendees can access scientific sessions and keynotes located on the expo floor.