IFT FIRST Chicago

13. - 16. July 2025 | Leading trade fair for innovations in the global food system

The IFT FIRST is a significant industry event held annually at the impressive McCormick Place in Chicago. The name "IFT FIRST"—short for "Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology"—reflects the mission of the Institute of Food Technologists to enhance the global food system through science and research..

This expo brings together experts from the entire food supply chain, including researchers, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. It provides a platform for discussing the latest developments in food processing, plant-based alternatives, fermentation technologies, and other innovative topics.

The exhibition showcases a diverse range of new products and services, such as logistics solutions, natural ingredients, food and feed additives, emulsifiers, and aromatic blends.

Another highlight includes specialized pavilions focused on organic products and sustainable agriculture, as well as panel discussions on current challenges in the food business. A startup pavilion also prominently features young innovative companies. Experience-oriented innovation areas and scientific posters enable intensive learning experiences and promote targeted networking.

The extensive program attracts professionals from numerous industries, including food safety, quality management, packaging technology, and venture capital management. Participants such as brand managers, researchers, and nutrition scientists come together to exchange ideas about the latest trends and challenges in food technology.

IFT FIRST is not just an expo but also an annual highlight in Chicago’s dynamic and innovative atmosphere, which is renowned as a hub for food technology and provides the perfect setting for this event.

The easily accessible McCormick Place is known for its top-notch facilities that support this global gathering. With its strategic location and excellent infrastructure, the expo is ideally suited for both local and international visitors.

As a staple in the annual expo calendar, the IFT FIRST sets standards in the food industry and fosters the exchange of knowledge and ideas that have the potential to transform our perspective and production of food sustainably.

The IFT FIRST will take place on 4 days from Sunday, 13. July to Wednesday, 16. July 2025 in Chicago.

In 246 days
Date:
13.07.2025 - 16.07.2025*
Sunday - Wednesday, 4 days
Trade Show Contact
Display e-mail address
www.iftevent.org

Audience:
professional visitors only

Cycle:
annually

Local time:
15:59 h (UTC -06:00)

Fair location:

McCormick Place Convention Center,
2301 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr, IL 60616 Chicago, Illinois, USA

Hotels

for trade fair date in Chicago


Fair organizer
Institute of Food Technologists
525 W. Van Buren St., Suite 1000
IL 60607 Chicago, USA
Tel: +1 (0)312 7828424
Display e-mail address
www.ift.org
Past editions:
  • 14. - 17. July 2024
  • 16. - 19. July 2023
  • 10. - 13. July 2022

Fair location:

McCormick Place Convention Center,
2301 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr, IL 60616 Chicago, Illinois, USA

Hotels

for trade fair date in Chicago


Product groups: advanced food safety systems, aromatic blends, emulsifiers, feed additives, fermentation technologies, food additives, innovative packaging techniques, logistics solutions, natural ingredients, organic products, plant-based alternatives, …

Disclaimer: No responsibility is taken for the correctness of this information. Errors and alterations excepted! Fair dates and exhibition sites are subject to change by the respective trade fair organiser.

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FAQ

Where does the IFT FIRST taking place?
The IFT FIRST fair takes place in Chicago, at the McCormick Place Convention Center.

When is the IFT FIRST taking place?
Visit the IFT FIRST from 13. - 16. July 2025.

How often does the IFT FIRST take place?
The IFT FIRST takes place annually.

What kind of fair is the IFT FIRST?
The IFT FIRST is an exhibition for Food, Laboratory Technology and Bio.